LADY LAKE, Fla. – The Florida Gaming Control Commission says it has shut down an illegal gambling operation at Il Villagio, seizing 190 slot machines and approximately $349,000 following a months-long criminal investigation.
According to the commission, law enforcement agents executed the search warrant on July 15 at Il Villagio, leading to the arrest of owner Rima Ray on charges of money laundering and keeping a gambling house.
Officials said several employees received notices to appear in court for serving as agents of a gambling house.
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The FGCC told News 6 slot machines are only permitted at eight licensed pari-mutuel facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties and six Seminole Tribe of Florida establishments.
Gaming officials encourage Florida residents to report suspected illegal gambling operations. The FGCC maintains multiple reporting channels, including their website at www.flgaming.gov/File-a-Report, email at Contact@FLGaming.gov, or phone at 850-880-3433.
Check back later for more updates on this story.