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MGCB announces sentencing, successful prosecution of Flint illegal gambling operation16 January 2025(PRESS RELEASE) -- The Michigan Gaming Control Board has announced the successful prosecution and sentencing of five individuals involved in operating an illegal gambling storefront at the Hot Spot Skill Arcade, located at 5542 Fenton Road in Flint. The defendants were charged with running an unlicensed gambling operation that featured 41 casino-style gaming devices. Patrons who played on the devices earned points for winning, which were then redeemable for Visa gift cards—all in violation of Michigan’s gaming laws. “We are thankful to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and her team for their tireless efforts in bringing those responsible for this illegal gambling operation to justice,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. “This prosecution demonstrates the commitment of the MGCB and our law enforcement partners to uphold the integrity of legal gaming in Michigan, and to hold individuals accountable for violating our laws.” The following individuals were all employees at the Hot Spot Skill Arcade who allowed patrons to wager on the computers after collecting their personal information and payment. They were sentenced in relation to their involvement in this illegal operation: - Michael Bixby, 48, of Holly, was sentenced to 24 months of probation, a $130 fine, $318 in fees and court costs, and the forfeiture of related items. - Jeffrey Ladd, 52, of Ortonville, was sentenced to 18 months of probation, ordered to pay a $130 fine and $68 in fees and court costs, and to forfeit various items related to the operation. - Victoria Adams, 64, of Flint, was sentenced to 6 months of probation, a $130 fine, $318 in fees and court costs, and to forfeit items linked to the illegal operation. - Michelle Teall, 58, of Holly, was sentenced to 6 months of probation, a $130 fine, and $68 in fees and court costs. - Courtney Thompson, 57, formerly of Fenton, was sentenced to 6 months of probation, a $130 fine, $68 in fees and court costs, and forfeiture of items. His probation can be transferred to his current residence and employment location in Indiana. Bixby, Ladd, Adams, and Thompson were all sentenced on Monday, 2 December 2024, in 7th Judicial Circuit Court in Flint and Teall’s sentencing took place on Monday, 16 December 2024. Bixby and Ladd had each pled guilty to one count of conducting a gambling operation without a license (a 10-year felony), while Adams, Teall, and Thompson each pled guilty to one high court misdemeanor of maintaining a gambling house for gain (a 2-year misdemeanor). “This successful prosecution serves as a testament to the strength of collaboration between state and local authorities in protecting our community from illegal activities,” said Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley. “Flint is committed to fostering a safe and lawful environment for its residents, and we will continue to support efforts that uphold integrity and justice.” |