State seizes 67 gambling devices, cash from alleged storefront casinos in Flint
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FLINT, MI – Eleven video slot machines, 56 computers authorities say were used for illegal gambling and more than $10,000 in suspected gambling proceeds and gift cards were seized by state investigators last week in raids at two Flint storefront casinos.
The raids took place Thursday, Aug. 18, at The Cellular Vault, 3301 Corunna Rd., and Cellular Bank, 4622 N. Saginaw St. The seized equipment and cash were removed as part of a joint investigation into the businesses by the Michigan Department of Attorney General and the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
“The MGCB received several anonymous tips regarding both Flint locations, and we thank the public for their help in rooting out possible illegal gambling activities,” said Henry Williams, MGCB executive director. “Patrons at alleged storefront casinos do not have access to the consumer protections required for legal, regulated gambling. The operations also can draw other types of crime to the surrounding neighborhoods.”
Thirty-nine computers that authorities said were used to play slot-style games were found at The Cellular Vault. Eleven standalone slot machines similar to those seen in commercial casinos, as well as 13 computers used to play slot-style games, were found at Cellular Bank.
The latter location also allowed patrons a card with a PIN, allowing them to wager online from offsite locations, such as their homes, authorities said.
The Flint area has been a hotbed for investigations into illegal gambling by the state.
In April, investigators removed 100 devices used for gambling and $29,200 in suspected gambling profits from two other alleged storefront casinos, The State Road Spot in Davison and The Bristol Spot in Burton.
Those two locations remain under investigation, officials said.
