A months-long investigation culminated in the shutdown of an illegal gambling operation in Sarasota County, leading to the arrest of two individuals. Authorities focused their attention on Spin 24/7, a business located on South Beneva Road, suspecting it was operating outside the bounds of the law.
Mohamed Belyaqout, 52, was apprehended at the storefront on March 26th. The following day, deputies successfully located and arrested Mabielka C. Cumbrera, 45, at a residence within Sarasota County. Both now face serious charges related to maintaining an unlawful gambling house and possessing illegal slot machines.
The operation wasn’t conducted in isolation. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office collaborated closely with the Florida Gaming Control Commission, demonstrating a unified front against illegal gambling. This partnership allowed for a broader investigation, extending beyond the single location.
During the execution of a search warrant at Spin 24/7, law enforcement officials seized a staggering 66 slot-style machines. A significant amount of cash was also recovered from the premises, indicating a substantial and ongoing illegal enterprise.
This wasn’t a sudden crackdown. Authorities had previously issued a cease-and-desist letter to the operators of Spin 24/7 in April 2025 – over a year before the arrests were made. Despite the warning, the illegal activity continued, prompting more decisive action.
Investigators are currently withholding details regarding the duration of the operation and the total amount of money seized. They are also remaining tight-lipped about any other potential targets that may be under investigation, preserving the integrity of the ongoing case.
Sheriff Kurt Hoffman emphasized the commitment to dismantling unauthorized gambling establishments in the region. He affirmed the ongoing partnership with the Florida Gaming Control Commission, signaling a sustained effort to hold offenders accountable.
The successful operation involved multiple units within the Sheriff’s Office – the Intelligence Unit, Tactical Unit, Special Investigations Section, and Patrol Bureau – working in concert with state regulators. This coordinated approach highlights the seriousness with which authorities are addressing the issue.
This case is part of a larger trend across Florida, where recent enforcement actions have resulted in the seizure of hundreds of illegal machines. Investigators are increasingly encountering businesses attempting to disguise gambling devices as legitimate arcade games, often uncovering large sums of cash in the process.
A significant challenge for law enforcement is the tendency of these operations to resurface under different names. This requires continuous vigilance and proactive investigation to prevent the proliferation of illegal gambling. The current investigation in Sarasota County remains active, with the possibility of further arrests.
The Spin 24/7 location has been closed following the raid, but its future remains uncertain. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about illegal gambling activity in the area to come forward and assist with their ongoing efforts.
