Michigan state investigators confiscated 11 video slot machines and 56 computers on August 18 which were allegedly used for illegal gambling, along with $10,141 in suspected gambling proceeds and gift cards, during raids conducted at two Flint locations: The Cellular Vault and Cellular Bank.
The machines, cash, associated equipment and business records were removed as part of joint investigations of the two freestanding businesses by the Michigan Department of Attorney General and the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
The Cellular Vault contained 39 computers used to play slot-style games, while Cellular Bank housed 11 standalone slot machines similar to those seen in a commercial casino and 13 computers used to play slot-style games. The latter also provided patrons a card with a PIN, allowing them to wager online from offsite locations such as their residences.
Henry Williams, MGCB executive director, explained that the Board received “several anonymous tips” regarding both Flint locations, and warned that patrons at alleged storefront casinos “do not have access to the consumer protections required for legal, regulated gambling. The operations also can draw other types of crime to the surrounding neighborhoods”.
In April, investigators removed 100 devices used for gambling and $29,200 in suspected gambling profits from two other alleged storefront casinos, The State Road Spot in Davison and The Bristol Spot in Burton. The Davison and Burton locations remain under investigation.
