Gaming Control Commission, sheriff warn of illegal arcades in St. Lucie County following bust

FORT PIERCE, Fla. – The Florida Gaming Control Commission and the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office are warning residents of illegal gambling houses after a recent bust.

The owner of Prestige Sweepstakes arcade in Fort Pierce, 58-year-old David Roffey, was arrested for allegedly “owning a gambling house, keeping a gambling house, and possession of illegal slot machines,” according the commission.

“We’re continuing to partner with the Florida Gaming Control Commission Director Carl Herold to shut down illegal arcades in St. Lucie County,” Sheriff Keith Pearson said.

“Residents and visitors, please do not visit these establishments,” Pearson said. “They are illegal.”

Two employees were also arrested for “keeping a gambling house, being employees of a gambling house, and possession of illegal slot machines,” according to the release.

Two patrons of the establishment received notices to appear, the commission said.

Deputies seized dozens of slot machines and over $18,000 in cash.

The Florida Gaming Control Commission is a five-member regulatory body that is responsible for exercising all regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to gambling, including pari-mutuel wagering, cardrooms, slot machine facilities, oversight of gaming compacts, and other forms of gambling, excluding the state lottery.

If you suspect illegal gambling activity in your area, report it to the Florida Gaming Control Commission.