Florida Gaming Control Commission Shuts Down Three Illegal Gambling Sites in Lake County

The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) has shut down three illegal gambling operations in Lake County following a coordinated, multi-location enforcement action carried out on January 8. The operation resulted in the seizure of 231 illegal gambling machines and more than $157,000 in unlawful gambling proceeds.

The enforcement effort, conducted under the operational name Calvin Coolidge, involved the execution of search warrants at three locations operating as illegal gambling houses in Umatilla and Leesburg. The targeted sites were identified through public complaints, intelligence gathering, and investigative work that confirmed the presence of unlawful slot machines.

“These enforcement actions demonstrate our commitment to protecting Florida communities and preserving the integrity of the state’s gaming laws,” said FGCC Executive Director Alana Zimmer. “Illegal gambling operations undermine lawful businesses and exploit patrons. FGCC will continue working proactively with our law enforcement partners to shut them down.”

At the House of Treasure, located at 37826 FL-19 in Umatilla, FGCC partnered with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, which served as the lead agency. Investigators seized 56 illegal gambling machines, including slot machines and fish tables, along with $75,619 in cash recovered from the machines. Three Notices to Appear were issued for possession of slot machines and keeping a gambling house.

FGCC agents also executed search warrants at two locations in Leesburg. At Hot Seats, located at 25327 U.S. Highway 27, Unit 202, authorities seized 77 illegal gambling machines and $35,621 in suspected gambling proceeds. Two Notices to Appear were issued for possession of slot machines and operating an illegal gambling house.

At The Hub, located at 3805 West Main Street in Leesburg, agents seized 98 illegal gambling machines and $46,597 in currency. Two additional Notices to Appear were issued for the same offenses.

The FGCC reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing Florida’s gaming laws and combating illegal gambling operations statewide.