Florida Sheriff Grady Judd: 'Operation Bad Odds' leads to 28 arrests, 48 illegal gambling machines recovered

Florida Sheriff Grady Judd on illegal gambling bust

More than two dozen people are facing criminal charges after an undercover operation dubbed "Operation Bad Odds." Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd says detectives seized a total of 48 machines from 12 stores countywide. Investigators also confiscated more than $100,000 in cash.

POLK COUNTY, Fla. - Through a recent undercover investigation called "Operation Bad Odds," undercover deputies with the Polk County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) said they made 28 arrests and confiscated 48 illegal gambling machines.

What is ‘Operation Bad Odds?’

What we know:

"Operation Bad Odds," began with a tip regarding gambling machines at A-1 Discount Beverage and Discount & Deli, both on Pilaklakaha Avenue in Auburndale. 

Undercover detectives with the PCSO said they went to both places and found the machines concealed in back rooms. Detectives placed bets and won money before the winnings were given to them by the store clerks, and the money was handed over concealed in bankers' bags.

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Through the investigation into those who possess and operate illegal gambling machines in stores throughout the county, detectives said 11 stores were identified. 

On Wednesday, deputies served search warrants at the 11 stores, and a 12th location was identified during the serving of a search warrant. From the 12 locations, 28 total people were arrested, 48 gambling machines and two drink coolers were confiscated, and two firearms and $100,971 in U.S. currency were seized. Officials said that five of the suspects are in the country illegally.

Those arrested are facing charges including keeping a gambling house, possessing a slot machine and disposing of money by lottery. 

(Credit: Polk County Sheriff's Office)

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What they're saying:

"People who gamble on machines like the ones we confiscated are being ripped off," Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. "These machines are not programmed for fair play. And the odds are, stores who engage in illegal gambling are at a higher risk of being robbed due to the cash they have on hand. It's a safe bet that you're going to jail if you illegally gamble or provide the machines to enable those to illegally gamble."