California internet cafe busts continue

The California sweeps against internet cafe ‘sweepstakes’ gambling continued Wednesday afternoon when Stockton police, assisted by agents from the State Department of Justice Gambling Division, conducted two raids, seizing computers and documentary evidence.

During the first raid, agents and detectives arrested a self-admitted gang member for two outstanding felony warrants, and seized 37 computers, along with approximately $2,000 in cash.

The bust led agents to a second internet cafe and another raid a few hours later in which three men were arrested and 20 computers seized. Among those arrested were two documented gang members, who were parolees at large. The third suspect was found to be in possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia.

The businesses were immediately shut down.

“We have heard from our business community and citizens that they, along with us, do not want you in the City of Stockton,” warned a local police spokesman at a press conference following the raids.

“Once we find out you are operating an illegal internet gambling cafe, we will seize your computers and money, and then shut down your business. You will also be faced with jail time.”

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