Detectives from the Corpus Christi Police Department’s Narcotics and Vice Investigations Division executed search warrants at two game rooms last week on an illegal gambling crackdown in Corpus Christi. The targeted locations were The Gold Room, situated at 5202 Weber Road, and The Diversion Center, located at 7114 Saratoga Blvd., according to a news release by senior officer Travis Pace.
Arrests Made at Both Locations
Authorities arrested three individuals linked to the illegal gambling crackdown operations:
- Viviana Garza (43) and Erasmo Cancino (32) at The Gold Room were charged with participating in organized criminal activities, promoting gambling and operating a gambling venue, possession of a gambling device, and violation of the Nueces County game room ordinance.
- Michael Trevino (30) at The Diversion Center, charged with engaging in organized criminal activity, promoting gambling, maintaining a gambling establishment, possessing a gambling device, and unlawfully carrying a weapon after detectives discovered he was in possession of a handgun.
Ongoing Investigations and Repeat Offenses
Police had investigated both businesses for several months, collecting substantial evidence of illegal activity before securing search warrants. This marks the second raid on The Diversion Center in just eight months.
On June 25, 2024, officers executed a previous search warrant at the same location following a tip about illegal gambling. That operation resulted in the arrest of three men for unlawful gambling and engaging in organized crime. Additionally, five adult patrons received citations for gambling, a Class C misdemeanor.
Additional Search Warrant Executed
As part of the broader crackdown, detectives also executed a third search warrant at an apartment complex in the 4900 block of Saratoga Boulevard, which was linked to the illegal gambling establishments. During the operation, authorities seized gambling equipment, $4,600 in cash, and other evidence related to unlawful gambling activities.
Criminal Charges and Legal Consequences
Taking part in organized crime is a state jail felony. It can lead to a punishment of up to two years in jail and fines of up to $10,000. Understanding these legal consequences is essential for informed decision-making and community safety. Additional charges, including gambling promotion, possession of a gambling device, and keeping a gambling place, are considered Class A misdemeanors.
Law Enforcement’s Warning to the Public
The Corpus Christi Police Department urges residents to be cautious, emphasizing that any game room offering cash payouts or rewards redeemable for cash is operating illegally. Both patrons and business operators participating in such activities risk criminal charges.
Agencies Involved in the Operation
Multiple law enforcement agencies assisted in the raids, including:
- Corpus Christi Police Department Gang Unit
- Violent Crime Unit
- Traffic Section
- Texas Comptroller’s Office, which regulates coin-operated machines
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities anticipate making additional arrests concerning the case.