Severe Prison Sentences for Robbery at Illegal Gambling Den in Sacramento
Robbery Leads to Harsh Sentences for Repeat Offenders
A violent robbery at an illegal gambling location in Sacramento has resulted in exceptionally long prison sentences for two repeat offenders. John Edward Blount and Eddie Lee White, both with prior criminal records, faced serious consequences for their actions during the incident at an unauthorized gambling site.
Court Sentences Reflect Severity of Crime and Criminal Histories
Sacramento County Superior Court Judge Michael Sweet handed down sentences that reflect both the nature of the crime and the offenders’ past convictions. White received a prison term of 40 years and eight months, while Blount was sentenced to 301 years to life, highlighting the significant impact of California’s Three Strikes law applied in their cases.
Details of the Incident and Legal Proceedings
The offense took place around 1:20 a.m. on January 22, 2018, at a residence on the 3700 block of 42nd Avenue in South Sacramento, known to operate as an illegal gambling den. Four men forcibly entered through the garage and committed a violent home invasion.
During the crime, victims were threatened with firearms, physically assaulted, and subjected to further violence, including having furniture thrown at them. Authorities later recovered a firearm believed to have been used, with some suspects apprehended carrying stolen items, while others escaped as law enforcement arrived.
Legal Background and Enhanced Sentencing
Both offenders had prior convictions that led to enhanced sentencing under California’s Three Strikes law. Blount’s extensive criminal record resulted in particularly severe penalties, while White’s history also contributed to his lengthy sentence. Judge Sweet emphasized the violence involved and the defendants’ backgrounds when imposing the terms.
The court proceedings concluded on February 10, following their conviction in November 2025. The jury found Blount guilty of robbery and attempted robbery offenses, as well as possession of a firearm as a felon. White was also convicted of multiple counts related to the robbery.
Case Timeline and Additional Facts
The case spanned nearly eight years from the incident to its resolution. Notably, during the attack, a woman responsible for the venue’s surveillance system called 911, inadvertently revealing the location of the illegal gambling operation to authorities.
The lengthy legal process included thorough investigations and culminated in significant sentences reflecting the gravity of the crime and the repeated unlawful behavior by the defendants.
