ALE AGENTS SEIZE 13 ILLEGAL VIDEO POKER MACHINES AND CASH

ROCKINGHAM – Alcohol Law Enforcement agents today completed a 10-month investigation in Richmond County seizing 13 illegal video poker machines and arresting a dozen people on charges ranging from operating illegal slot machines to gambling and selling alcoholic beverages without permits.

ALE agents, with assistance from the Rockingham Police Department served 11 search warrants to businesses; six within the city limits of Rockingham, the other five in Richmond County. One location paid out in cash and also sold alcoholic beverages without having the applicable ABC permits.

During the investigation, undercover ALE agents visited each of the locations as patrons, played the video poker machines, and received cash payoffs from employees in exchange for credits.  Cash payoffs are illegal according to North Carolina Law.

Agents also seized various business and financial records as well as equipment used in gambling and the operation of the illegal machines. Charges are pending.

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