The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) and Michigan Department of Attorney General revealed earlier this week that five individuals recently entered guilty pleas in connection with an illegal gambling operation in Flint.
Michigan Gaming Control Board said Hot Spot Skill Arcade did not have a gaming license, operated 41 computer gaming stations
A joint investigation conducted by both agencies uncovered that Hot Spot Skill Arcade, located at 5542 Fenton Road in Flint, functioned without a gaming license and operated 41 computer gaming stations.
According to the MGCB’s press release, each computer gaming station “offers casino slot-style gambling — commonly known as ‘pig’ games — on software provided by TS Trading Systems.”
The five defendants in this case who worked at Hot Spot Skill Arcade are Michael Bixby, 48, of Holly, Jeffrey Ladd, 52, of Ortonville, Victoria Adams, 64, of Flint, Michelle Teall, 58, of Holly, and Courtney Thompson, 57, of Fenton.
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board’s investigation into the unauthorized and unlicensed Hot Spot storefront casino in Flint underscores the agency’s commitment to upholding gaming laws and ensuring fair play,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said.
“Thanks to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and her team, who are such important enforcement partners in these cases, the upcoming sentencing of the defendants on Dec. 2 will mark yet another significant and successful outcome resulting in accountability and enforcement of gaming regulations to protect the integrity of gaming in Michigan.”
Hot Spot employees permitted wagering on the computers after obtaining personal info, payment
Hot Spot employees allowed customers to wager on the computers, after collecting personal information and payment. Participants earned points for winning, which were then redeemable for Visa gift cards.
Bixby and Ladd each pled guilty to one count of conducting a gambling operation without a license (a 10-year felony), while Adams, Teall, and Thompson each pled guilty to one high court misdemeanor of maintaining a gambling house for gain (a 2-year misdemeanor).
“I am pleased to secure these convictions, alongside the Michigan Gaming Control Board, following our joint investigation,” said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. “This partnership strengthens our efforts to dismantle criminal operations and places of illegal gaming across our state.”
All defendants are due back in 7th Judicial Circuit Court for sentencing at 9 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 2.
