Authorities seize gaming devices, cash during Missouri gambling crackdown

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced a multi-agency illegal gaming sting operation that resulted in the seizure of dozens of gaming devices and nearly $59,000 in cash across four Missouri counties.

According to the attorney general’s office, the operation was conducted in partnership with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agencies.

Authorities said investigators seized 35 illegal gaming devices and $58,815 during simultaneous operations in Boone, Dallas, Miller and Jefferson counties.

Officials also filed 21 felony counts of first-degree promoting gambling tied to four locations and five misdemeanor counts of second-degree promoting gambling tied to a fifth location.

Locations involved in the operation included businesses in Columbia, Ashland, Buffalo, Lake Ozark and Arnold.

Attorney General Hanaway said the operation marks an expansion of enforcement efforts targeting illegal gaming operations throughout Missouri.

“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,” Michael A. Turner said in a statement.

The attorney general’s office also is seeking civil forfeiture of the money seized during the investigation under Missouri’s Criminal Activity Forfeiture Act.

Participating agencies included the Arnold Police Department, Ashland Police Department, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia Police Department, Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Miller County Sheriff’s Office and Lake Ozark Police Department.

Authorities said the charges are accusations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.