Jacksonville Greyhound Racing Files Suit against Illegal Gambling Establishments
JACKSONVILLE, Fla.-(Business Wire)-August 25, 2009 - Jacksonville Greyhound Racing Inc., parent company of the Jacksonville Kennel Club, Orange Park Kennel Club and The Poker Room at St. Johns Greyhound Park, filed suit today against seven Allied Veterans of the World Internet Cafes. After a thorough investigation, Jacksonville Greyhound Racing Inc. believes it has overwhelming evidence that Allied Veterans of the World is operating illegal gaming establishments and attempting to shield its activity by masquerading as legitimate businesses.
Allied Veterans of the World Internet Cafes claim to be conducting game promotions or sweepstakes. Jacksonville Greyhound Racing Inc. claims they are engaged in illegal gambling as defined by Florida law. The machines used in these establishments are slot machines, as defined by Florida Statutes, and are almost exclusively used as such. Similar to a Las Vegas style slot machine, the “wheels” on the screens “spin.” Patrons are able to stop the “wheels” in the hope of increasing their chances of obtaining a winning combination by lining up the cherries, bars, or a combination of any other winning symbol depending on the game being played. Upon winning, patrons are awarded credits that can be cashed in for money at any time.
“Jacksonville Greyhound Racing Inc. strongly believes that Allied Veterans of the World is running establishments that are not only illegal, but damaging to our community as a whole,” said Howard Korman, President & CEO Jacksonville Greyhound Racing Inc. “These so-called 'Internet cafes' are exploiting the law and hiding behind the guise of being legitimate businesses in order to promote illegal gambling. It is in Jacksonville’s best interest to have these establishments closed as quickly as possible.”
Law enforcement agencies in the state of Florida have begun taking action against Allied Veterans of the World Internet Cafes and other businesses like them. Longwood police and Seminole County deputy sheriffs raided two Allied Veterans of the World gaming operations on August 20th, seizing computers, equipment and cash. Last June, the Marion County Drug Enforcement Team seized 76 computers and two ATMs from properties in Silver Spring Shores and Dunnellon owned by Ocala man Jeffery M. Reed. Reed and three employees were arrested. The games in Reed’s establishments were virtually identical to the ones featured at Allied Veterans of the World Internet Cafes.
In the lawsuit filed today, Jacksonville Greyhound Racing, Inc. claims Allied Veterans of the World is in violation of the Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act and the Civil Remedies for Criminal Practices Act. The lawsuit also claims these establishments are a common nuisance pursuant to Florida Statute Section 849.20.
Michael R. Freed, partner in the law firm, Brennan Manna, & Diamond, filed the suit in the 4th Circuit Court today on behalf of his client and has made himself available for specifics concerning the suit.
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