Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Operations Continues
The Oakland Police Department (OPD) conducted a successful crackdown on an illegal casino operation located in Oakland, California earlier this week. Situated in the 900 block of 77th Avenue, the illicit casino venue was the subject of an arrest and search warrant.
Three individuals were arrested and booked on various charges as authorities investigated the gambling operation. The raid was carried out in collaboration with the U.S. Marshals Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the San Ramon Police Department.
Apart from illegal gambling machines, investigators discovered several unlicensed firearms and evidence related to a recent homicide in Oakland during the operation.
Recent Crackdowns in Oakland
Oakland has seen a series of crackdowns on illegal gambling operations by local law enforcement in recent months. Last month, three individuals were charged following their arrest in July during a raid on an illegal gambling premises in East Oakland. The raid uncovered a loaded assault rifle, illegal gambling machines, and a significant amount of cash.
In late 2022, three individuals faced serious assault charges after a man was tortured and beaten for protesting gambling losses at an illegal gambling den on 17th Avenue. This incident reflects the challenges of completely shutting down highly profitable illegal gambling operations.
Despite efforts to close these venues, city officials have noted that new ones often open nearby, and residents may be hesitant to cooperate with law enforcement. The OPD has seized over 900 firearms in Oakland this year, many of which have been linked to criminals involved in illegal gambling operations. Several illegal gambling venues have been identified by city police since 2020.
The investigation into the recent illegal casino bust is ongoing, with authorities actively working to gather more evidence and uncover potential related criminal activities. The public has been urged to provide any relevant information to the Oakland Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division.