Missouri – Missouri authorities say a coordinated illegal gaming crackdown across four counties has marked a new stage in the state’s effort to shut down machines officials describe as unlawful gambling devices.
Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced that her office worked with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and several local law enforcement agencies to carry out simultaneous seizures at five locations in Boone, Dallas, Miller and Jefferson counties. The operation followed investigations by the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control.
“The era of Missouri’s illegal gaming industry hiding behind a so-called ‘gray market’ is over,” said Attorney General Hanaway.
“Illegal gaming has formed nuisance centers across our state, and this billion-dollar industry has put paved the way for violent and organized crime. We are proud to have partnered with local law enforcement in a sting operation that marks the start of our next phase of enforcement. My office remains committed to dismantling illegal gaming manufacturers, distributors, and retail stores that continue to defy law enforcement.”
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In all, authorities seized 35 gaming devices and $58,815 in alleged illegal funds. Prosecutors also filed 21 felony counts of first-degree promoting gambling tied to four locations, along with five misdemeanor counts of second-degree promoting gambling connected to a fifth location.
Officials stressed that the charges are allegations. As in every criminal case, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
The seizures included four devices and $16,973 at Eagle Stop North Providence in Columbia; six devices and $8,072 at Woody’s Pub and Grub in Ashland; eight devices and $15,638 at Buffalo Eagle Stop in Buffalo; four devices and $15,985 at Bagnell Eagle Stop in Lake Ozark; and seven devices and $2,147 at Tenbrook Station Lounge in Arnold. Officials said additional funds at the Arnold location may be recovered after specialized tools are used to open a payment kiosk.
The Attorney General’s Office is also seeking civil forfeiture of the funds seized during the operation under the Missouri Criminal Activity Forfeiture Act, which allows law enforcement to pursue property believed to be used in, gained from, or intended for criminal activity.
“This sting operation reflects our shared commitment with the Attorney General’s Office and local law enforcement partners to enforce the law, hold violators accountable and protect lawful business practices throughout Missouri,” said MSHP Colonel Michael A. Turner.
The operation involved cooperation with police and sheriff’s offices in Arnold, Ashland, Boone County, Columbia, Dallas County, Jefferson County, Miller County and Lake Ozark.
Hanaway also issued a direct warning to anyone still housing or operating illegal gaming devices, saying they should unplug, shut down and remove them immediately. Her office said it is prepared to pursue similar operations across Missouri.
