Modesto Police Crack Down on Illegal Gambling, Seize $27,000
Recent Crackdown on Illegal Gambling in Modesto
Modesto has recently been under the spotlight for two major events: first, an Illinois Lottery winner claimed a $1 million prize, and now local authorities have taken decisive action against illegal gambling activities within the city.
Police Operation Targets Unauthorized Gambling Venues
Law enforcement officials have arrested four individuals suspected of running illegal gambling operations as part of an undercover sting. The Modesto Police Department’s Crime Reduction Team, along with the Code Enforcement Unit, identified several establishments functioning as fronts for unauthorized gambling.
Locations Involved in Illegal Gambling Activities
The operation uncovered illegal gambling activities taking place at four convenience stores across Modesto, including:
- A & Z Smoke Shop at 1410 Carver Road
- J’s Smoke Shop located at 2028 West Orangeburg Avenue
- Kwik-E-Mart situated at 1425 La Loma Avenue
- Mousa Market at 804 2nd Street
Community Involvement and Undercover Investigation
Local residents and concerned community members alerted police to suspicious activity, prompting a detailed investigation. Undercover officers visited the identified stores, opened gambling accounts, placed bets, and were even able to collect winnings directly from employees, confirming the illicit operations.
Conditions at the Sites and Seizure Details
The targeted convenience stores, reportedly in poor condition with expired products on shelves, proved to be a front for illegal gambling. Upon conducting raids, the police seized approximately $27,000 and arrested four suspects connected to these activities.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Illegal Gambling
The Modesto Police Department emphasized its commitment to combating illegal gambling by shutting down such establishments and enforcing state and local laws rigorously. Additional charges were filed against one individual for possession of methamphetamine during the operation.
