The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) seized 163 slot machines and US$247,285 in cash during Operation Final Spin, an enforcement action carried out on September 13, 2026, against two alleged illegal gambling houses in St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, as part of a statewide crackdown that has already shut down more than 200 illegal arcades.
The operation targeted Action Arcade, 6541 54th Avenue North, where authorities seized 90 machines and US$142,020, and The Zoo Sports Club and Grille, 5111 66th Street North, where officials confiscated 73 machines and US$105,265. Three people were issued notices to appear: two connected to Action Arcade on charges involving possession of slot machines and keeping a gambling house, and one at The Zoo for possession and acting as an agent or employee of a gambling house. Their identities had not been publicly disclosed.
The operation was led by the FGCC with support from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Highway Patrol and the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco. State Representative Berny Jacques, a Republican representing District 59, also participated. As of September 2026, the FGCC is chaired by Julie Imanuel Brown; Tina Repp serves as Vice Chair; Alana Zimmer is Executive Director; and Carl Herold heads the Division of Gaming Enforcement. Harold reported on September 3 that during the previous month the division handled 71 cases, seized 346 slot machines, shut down seven locations, made 15 arrests, confiscated US$179,717, and destroyed 71 machines.
Julie Imanuel Brown
The main legal framework is Chapter 849 of the Florida Statutes. Section 849.01 penalizes the operation of gambling houses, while Section 849.15 prohibits the possession or operation of slot machines outside legally authorized settings.
Legal commercial slots in Florida are limited to eight pari-mutuel facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, where they are taxed at 34% of revenue, with proceeds directed to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund.
