Operation Silent Spin Targets Illegal Gambling Arcades in Manatee County
State gaming officials seized 265 illegal gambling machines and more than $120,000 in cash during a multi-location enforcement operation targeting illegal gambling businesses in Manatee County.
The operation, known as “Operation Silent Spin,” was conducted by the Florida Gaming Control Commission with assistance from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations.
According to the commission, authorities seized 155 illegal slot machines and approximately $78,483 from Spin City Arcade. Investigators also seized 61 illegal slot machines and about $24,157 from an unnamed arcade, along with 49 illegal slot machines and roughly $18,157 from Mike’s Arcade.
Officials said the operation resulted in multiple criminal charges and immigration detainers, though the commission did not release the identities of those charged or specify the charges filed.
The latest enforcement action marks the second major operation involving Spin City Arcade in recent years. In September 2023, undercover detectives with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office shut down the business at 3304 First St. W. in Bradenton after serving a search warrant following repeated warnings from authorities regarding illegal gambling activity.
During the 2023 raid, investigators seized 33 full-size arcade-style slot machines, 62 computers and additional electronic gaming equipment. More than $15,000 in suspected illegal gambling proceeds was also confiscated. No customers or employees were arrested during that investigation, though authorities said the business owner remained under investigation at the time.
State officials say illegal gambling operations continue to pose public safety concerns throughout Florida. The Florida Gaming Control Commission referenced a recent armed robbery and shooting investigated by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at an illegal gambling house in which a customer was shot multiple times. Officials said underground gambling businesses are often associated with large amounts of cash, limited security, weapons, drugs, trafficking and predatory activity targeting patrons.
The commission said it is seeking additional resources to address illegal gambling operations statewide. Lawmakers in Tallahassee are expected to consider a budget request that would expand gaming enforcement efforts, including the creation of a proposed enforcement squad focused on southwest Florida.
Officials encourage residents to report suspected illegal gambling activity through the Florida Gaming Control Commission’s online reporting system, by email or through its statewide tip line.