More than $23,000 and dozens of gaming machines were seized in a raid by state officials on an alleged illegal gambling operation in Delta Township on Feb. 16.
Members of the Eaton County Sheriff’s Dept. and Lansing Police Dept. cooperated on an investigation and seizure of illegal gambling equipment and cash at an establishment called Cozy Barcade, located at 3280 S. Waverly Road, Suite C-2, in Delta Township, southeast of Lansing.
Anonymous Tips Led to Seizure of $23,ooo and 36 Gaming Machines at Cozy Barcade
According to a press release by the Michigan Gaming Control Board, 36 machines were apprehended, all of them slot-style devices, freestanding slot machines, or table-mounted gaming machines. It’s unknown how long the Cozy Barcade had been hosting the alleged activities on their premises.
It is unlawful to operate an unregulated unlicensed gaming operation in Michigan.
“Illegal gaming locations prey on vulnerable people and don’t offer the patron protections required for legal, regulated gaming,” MGCB executive director Henry Williams said in a statement.
A search warrant was served on the Cozy Barcade on Thursday, Feb. 16, following an investigation by the Michigan Dept. of Attorney General and MGCB. The impetus for the investigation were anonymous tips from citizens.
The location in Delta Township was at a business with a sign outside that read “COZY FOOD MART,” but according to photos published by WLNS.com, the venue was packed with the alleged illegal gambling machines and seating for many patrons.
Michigan residents can help combat illegal gambling in the state
If you suspect there is illegal gambling taking place in your area in Michigan, contact the MGCB anonymously at 1-888-314-2682 or send an email to [email protected]. Every tip helps authorities follow up in alleged illegal gaming in the state.
Both agencies are responsible for oversight into illegal gambling operations in the state. This is the latest in a series of illegal operators busted by authorities. Last September, 56 illegal gaming machines were seized during four separate raids in Redford Township, Taylor, Allen Park and Flint.
Attorney General Dana Nessel pointed out the lost revenue to the state from such activities.
“Illegal gambling diverts taxes and revenue from our communities which is otherwise used to support our state and schools,” Nessel said.
About the Author
