MEMPHIS, Tenn — Memphis police said they have seized more than $1,000,000 cash from nearly 270 gambling machines they said are now illegal.
The Memphis Police Department (MPD) said that during Summer 2022, an MPD organized crime unit became aware of increased criminal activity around machines installed in corner stores and gas stations around Memphis.
According to MPD, these machines were found to be specifically placed in high-crime areas and this lead to more serious offenses being committed. Police said that in several incidents, citizens became victims of theft, robbery and aggravated assault after using these gambling machines.
MPD said they then met with the Shelby County District Attorney's Office regarding the machines. The machines were then deemed illegal per Tennessee State Statute.
A operation that MPD calls "Operation Casino Royale" was launched in July 2022. This operation was put together by MPD in order to "investigate, dismantle and disrupt the criminal organization surrounding illegal gambling and criminal acts of violence in the city of Memphis."
Memphis police said that 65 criminal investigations have been conducted since the operation began — with the arrest of two suspects. There have been 53 misdemeanor citations, 12 city ordinances and multiple suspects were arrested for outstanding warrants as well as felony firearm and narcotics possession, according to MPD.