Seminole Gaming Warns Florida Residents About Illegal Gambling

Seminole Gaming is warning its casino guests about “extensive illegal gambling” across Florida, highlighting the dangers of unregulated gaming operations that have proliferated throughout the state.

In a letter signed by David Hoenemeyer, COO of Seminole Gaming, and the presidents and general managers of the company’s Florida casinos, the gaming operator reached out directly to customers about illegal gambling establishments.

“You are one of our most valued Casino Guests and Unity Members, and we are reaching out to make you aware of extensive illegal gambling that is taking place in Florida,” the letter states. “You may have seen news reports about the proliferation of gaming arcades, or slot parlors, or internet cafes that have popped up in many parts of Florida. Regardless of the term, they are all unlawful gambling operations, and they are a threat to everyone — not just the unsuspecting customers whom they attract.”

The warning comes as Florida struggles with an estimated 48,000 unregulated gambling devices operating throughout the state, compared to approximately 23,000 legal machines at Seminole Gaming properties and eight licensed pari-mutuel parlors.

“These facilities are illegal and unregulated. They don’t pay taxes and they prey on people who are unaware of their very real dangers,” the letter states. “Numerous investigations have shown they often refuse pay out of jackpots to hapless customers. Many don’t even program their slot machines to deliver fair returns.”

Specific instances

The letter points to specific evidence of rigged machines: “Recent raids by Cape Coral Police uncovered slot machines rigged to pay out a pitiful 18 percent. Compare that to the 85 percent minimum payout required under Florida law, for slot machines located in areas where they are legal.”

Beyond unfair gambling odds, Seminole Gaming warns of broader safety risks. “Furthermore, they are often venues for illegal drugs and even violent criminal activity, caused by thugs who take advantage of their lax security and infrequent police patrols to victimize customers,” the letter states. “Studies show they aren’t safe. Not for you. Not for anyone.”

The letter acknowledges enforcement challenges.

“These illegal gambling houses survive because the Florida Gaming Control Commission and local law enforcement officers don’t have the resources they need to permanently put them out of business,” it asserts. “Occasional raids that result in arrests and confiscated illegal gambling equipment only slow down the unlawful operators. Just as one illegal gambling house is closed down, another pops up in a strip mall down the street.”

L. Carl Herold, director of law enforcement for the Florida Gaming Control Commission, has confirmed that more than 4,000 illegal slot machines and “significant cash” has been confiscated over the past year.

The illegal gambling issue extends beyond physical locations. According to American Gaming Association research, illegal online casinos are generating an estimated $3.9 billion annually in Florida alone, with many sites impersonating legitimate casinos like Hard Rock and Miccosukee operations.

Seminole Gaming’s letter concludes with a direct appeal.

“We urge you to be vigilant and avoid putting yourself and others at risk by patronizing such places. Don’t make it easy for these crooks to take your dollars and simultaneously endanger your well-being.”