Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Busts Illegal Gambling Operations

Investigation Reveals Illegal Gambling Machines and Other Violations

Port Charlotte – Illegal video gaming in three facilities in Port Charlotte came to a halt as a result of a successful partnership between the Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s (Department) Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco (ABT) and the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). The arrests and seizures of the illegal gaming machines from ABT-licensed facilities came after a two-month-long undercover investigation by ABT agents.

“This was a great partnership that resulted from a two-month-long investigation and a lot of dedication and hard work,” said Interim Secretary Chuck Drago. “Our ABT agents remain committed to keeping the public safe and upholding the law.”

The three facilities targeted in the investigation were:

Loony Bin Eatery and Pub, 1182 Tamiami Trail Unit F, Charlotte County, Port Charlotte, Fla.
Chubby’z 2 Tavern, 4109 Tamiami Trail, Charlotte County, Port Charlotte, Fla.
Coyote’s Bar and Grill, 4300 Kings Highway, Suite 412, Charlotte County, Port Charlotte, Fla.

Undercover ABT agents investigated the establishments for violation of Florida State Statute 849.01, Operating/Keeping a Gambling House, and Florida State Statute 849.15, Possession of Prohibited Coin Operated Machine. Each of the businesses could face administrative charges for being the site of violations, and punishments could range from fines to suspension or revocation of licenses to sell alcoholic beverages and/or tobacco products.

The mission of ABT is to keep alcohol and tobacco out of the hands of underage persons, to ensure that licensed establishments are in compliance with the laws and rules regulating the industry in Florida, and to collect taxes and fees related to these industries.

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly. The Department licenses more than one million businesses and professionals ranging from real estate agents, veterinarians, and accountants to contractors and cosmetologists. For more information, please visit www.MyFloridaLicense.com.

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