Police seize more than 100 machines in raid

Monday, July 18, 2005 | 9:46 a.m.

PINE BLUFF, Ark. -- Police seized more than 100 machines in a series of gambling raids in Pine Bluff, marking the culmination of a months-long investigation.

Authorities said the sites were using video poker machines, though no one had been arrested. Authorities said charges would come later.

"We're going to issue arrest warrants when the investigation is complete," Deputy Prosecutor Rik Ramsey said.

The simultaneous raids were carried out Friday by police from Pine Bluff and Monticello and the Jefferson County Sheriff's department.

Pine Bluff police Lt. Robert Rawlinson said felony charges could be filed against the owners, operators and employees of the gambling houses. Patrons of the houses are not expected to be charged, he said.

archive