Gambling Sites in Tom Green County Ordered to Cease and Desist

SAN ANGELO, TX - The San Angelo Police Department announced that officials are ordering gambling sites across San Angelo and Tom Green County to cease and desist.

San Angelo Police Sgt. Matt Vaughn said, over the course of the past four weeks, SAPD's Street Crimes Division, in conjunction with the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations, has investigated approximately 21 establishments located in San Angelo and Tom Green County in regards to illegal gambling operations.

"Many of these establishments consider their places of business as 'sweepstakes' facilities, and some operate as bars and convenience stores," said Vaughn in a press release. "Some of these particular establishments have been determined (through investigations, intelligence, and calls for service) as a breeding ground for further criminal activity, such as robbery, drug use/trafficking, assault, and other felonious offenses. The welfare and safety of the citizens of San Angelo and Tom Green County is paramount, and allowing the illegal gambling operations to continue is a threat to the communities where these businesses operate."

Vaughn added that SAPD and the Tom Green County District Attorney’s Office, at the conclusion of the investigation, have deemed the above mentioned establishments as committing illegal gambling acts in regards to Chapter 47 (Gambling) and Chapter 71 (Engaging in Organized Crime) of the Texas Penal Code.

"The San Angelo Police Department, Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office, and Tom Green County District Attorney’s Office will not tolerate the actions of these businesses," said Sgt. Vaughn. "The investigation has resulted in official 'cease and desist' notices being given to the identified establishments. However, any establishments that have not been identified will also be held accountable if deemed in violation of the above mentioned state laws. Failure to comply with this notice will result in further law enforcement action."