UMVA has learned that a massive crackdown on illegal gambling operations has unfolded in Missouri, with authorities confiscating 35 machines and nearly $60,000 in a statewide operation.
The raids, carried out in conjunction with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agencies, targeted five separate businesses across four counties. Investigators combed through properties in Boone, Dallas, Jefferson, and Miller counties, leading to a web of criminal cases connected to alleged illegal gaming activity.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the Attorney General's office remains committed to dismantling the illicit industry, which has been operating in the shadows of Missouri's regulated casino market.
Authorities recovered a staggering $58,815, believed to be the result of unlawful gambling operations. Prosecutors swiftly filed 21 felony counts of first-degree promoting gambling tied to four businesses, as well as five misdemeanor counts of second-degree promoting gambling connected to another location.
"The era of Missouri's illegal gaming industry hiding behind a so-called 'gray market' is over," Attorney General Hanaway declared in a statement. "We are proud to have partnered with local law enforcement in a sting operation that marks the start of our next phase of enforcement."
Missouri State Highway Patrol Colonel Michael A. Turner echoed the sentiment, highlighting the importance of cooperation between state and local agencies. "This sting operation reflects our shared commitment to enforce the law, hold violators accountable, and protect lawful business practices throughout Missouri."
Details of the targeted businesses paint a picture of a thriving underground industry. Eagle Stop North Providence in Columbia was found with four gaming devices and $16,973 in cash. Woody's Pub and Grub in Ashland was seized with six machines and $8,072.
Buffalo Eagle Stop in Dallas County contained eight illegal gaming devices along with $15,638. In Lake Ozark, investigators recovered four devices and $15,985 from Bagnell Eagle Stop. Tenbrook Station Lounge in Arnold was discovered with seven illegal gambling devices and $2,147.
Court records reveal that prosecutors have filed charges against several individuals, including Jenna A. Gier in Dallas County, Keith Allen Winscott in Boone County, and Anthony Gier in Miller County. Tonia Lynn Twardowski in Jefferson County faces five misdemeanor gambling counts.
The crackdown follows a statewide effort targeting gaming machines operating outside Missouri's regulated casino industry. Hanaway's office has recently warned businesses and distributors that so-called gray market machines could face increased enforcement actions, while several operators have already suspended or scaled back machine operations amid growing legal pressure from state officials.
The Attorney General's office also plans to pursue civil forfeiture proceedings for all money seized during the raids under Missouri's Criminal Activity Forfeiture Act. State law allows law enforcement agencies to confiscate property tied to criminal activity, including funds allegedly derived from illegal gambling operations.
