Michigan Police Bust Large Illegal Casino in Flint

Article by : Erik Gibbs Aug 28, 2023

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On August 24, 2023, a collaborative investigation by the Michigan Department of Attorney General and the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) led to the execution of a search warrant at The Flint Arcade.

The casino operation ran at 3301 Corunna Road in Flint and was strategically selected for illicit activities. The raid received support from various law enforcement agencies, including the Michigan State Police, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and Flint Police Department.

During the operation, authorities confiscated two gaming machines allegedly used for illicit gambling. Additionally, 48 personal computers utilized for playing slot-style games were confiscated. $13,260 in suspected gambling earnings were also seized from the premises.

Henry Williams, the executive director of the MGCB, emphasized the detrimental impact of storefront casinos. Williams also added that illegal gambling has a counterproductive economic impact on communities.

Williams added that it is vital to dismantle illicit gaming operations to protect customers from fraudulent schemes and potential harm.

These establishments also tend to attract criminal activity. Willaims believes that these operations also have a way to divert customers away from dealing with legitimate businesses that drive positive economic impacts on the local economies.

This action followed a previous incident on August 18, 2022. The Michigan Attorney General’s office then executed a search warrant at the exact location. Back then, it operated as The Cellular Vault.

During that operation, over 40 computers related to gambling activities were confiscated, along with over $2,500 in profits, leading to the closure of the operation and delivering a solid message that authorities were committed to shutting down similar operations.

Subsequently, anonymous tips from concerned Michigan residents informed the MGCB that The Flint Arcade had reemerged at the exact location. Reports confirmed that the operation allowed clients to play on slot-style gaming machines.

It’s important to note that gambling is extensively prohibited by the Michigan Penal Code, except where explicitly allowed by law. Williams affirmed the MGCB’s commitment to collaborating with relevant authorities to establish a safer and more transparent gaming environment for Michigan residents.

The MGCB provides businesses involved in illegal activities opportunities to rectify their operations. This is done before law enforcement intervention becomes necessary. When doing so, the outcome leads to equipment and proceeds being seized.

The agency also offers informative fact sheets on Michigan law and unregulated gaming machines through its website so providers and gaming companies can understand the existing legal boundaries set for the gaming industry.