Gambling Business Shutdown with Seizure of Machines and Cash in Bradenton

Approximately two months ago, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Intel Unit began investigating gambling businesses operating illegal slot machines. Fifty-three gambling establishments were identified, and in late May, deputies delivered cease and desist letters to these businesses warning the owners they could face up to 5 years in prison and be fined as much as $10,000 per machine for failing to comply with the law. Shortly after the letters were issued, around 40% of these businesses voluntarily closed their doors. Detectives then conducted undercover operations on gambling establishments, also known as game rooms, that refused to close business.

On June 20, 2023, undercover detectives entered Sizzling Sam’s Arcade at 3126 1st Street West and engaged in slot machine-style gambling. Based on that activity, detectives developed probable cause and obtained a search warrant for Sizzing Sam’s Arcade.

On July 13^th, Intel and Strategic Unit detectives executed the search warrant, shut the business down, and collected evidence. Sixty-nine individual gambling machines were seized along with more than 52 thousand dollars in illegal proceeds. Leading up to the raid, Sizzling Sam’s was notified of their violations by the Manatee Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Gaming Control Commission. None of the customers or employees at the business were arrested Thursday. However, the business owner is under investigation, and charges are pending

As a result of businesses shutting down their gambling operations, detectives have learned about a scam where someone impersonates a Florida Gaming Control Commission official and asks business owners to pay large fines to gain compliance and reopen their businesses. Anyone with questions should contact the FGCC or the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at (941) 747-3011.

For more information and answers to frequently asked questions about illegal gambling, visit: https://flgaming.gov/faq