The Michigan Gaming Board reported Thursday it had seized 50 gambling devices from an address in Flint that was served a warrant for similar illegal activities last year.
The joint investigation by the MGCB and Michigan Department of Attorney General led to state investigators executing a search warrant at The Flint Arcade. A total of 48 computers used to play slot-style games and two gaming machines allegedly used for illegal gambling were seized, along with $13,260 in suspected gambling proceeds.
“Storefront casinos and illegal gambling pose significant risks to communities, both socially and economically,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said in a statement. “Since they can often attract criminal activity and draw customers away from legitimate businesses that positively contribute to the local economy, it is essential that these types of operations get shut down to prevent customers from falling prey to fraudulent schemes and protect them from potential harm.”
Raids conducted almost exactly one year apart
Investigators executed a search warrant at the same address, 3301 Corunna Road in Flint, on Aug. 18, 2022, when the location was known as The Cellular Vault. That raid resulted in seizure of 43 computers used for gambling and more than $2,500 in winnings and gambling proceeds.
Though The Cellular Vault was shut down as part of the raid, the MGCB received anonymous tips The Flint Arcade had been offering the opportunity to wager on slot-style gambling. The state’s penal code broadly prohibits any form of gambling except that allowed by law.
“The MGCB is committed to working with the proper authorities to create a safer and more transparent gaming environment for Michigan citizens,” Williams added. “The agency is dedicated to helping communities statewide remove gaming machines used for gambling from storefront operations, gas stations, and convenience stores, and we encourage residents to call us with tips.”
Legal wagering in Michigan among casinos, sports wagering, and online casino gaming generated a combined $283.3 million in gross revenue in July, with more than half that total coming from iGaming. Online casino revenue in the Wolverine State totaled $153.6 million, the seventh time in eight months that discipline cleared $150 million.
Michigan residents can report illegal or suspicious gambling activity anonymously by calling the 24-hour tipline at 1-888-314-2682.
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