Authorities in Texas busted a long-term organized crime operation after an undercover investigation. Police seized over $1 million and 81 gambling machines.
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What happened: The Galveston County Sheriff's Office (GCSO) revealed details of the operation in a news release. Authorities explain that their Organized Crime Task Force investigated an illegal gambling establishment at 1601 Dickinson Avenue, Dickinson, Texas.
GCSO explains that the gambling establishment was known as "Mardi Gras." Undercover detectives identified the primary owner and manager as 64-year-old Nancy Herndon. Authorities executed a search warrant at Mardi Gras and at Herndon's Home.
Police seized multiple items: During their operation, police seized 81 gambling machines and $42,449 in cash from inside the game room. Detectives also seized "$1.52 million located at Herndon's residence and Herndon's residence itself." GCSO also noted that they charged five of Herndon's employees.
Summer Gilliland, 56 Irene Salazar, 53 Angela Coffman, 54 Michelle Gilliland, 64 Maria Anaya, 58 Texas Authorities Reveal Multiple Charges Following The Undercover Gambling Bust
A long list of charges: The news release details charges brought against Nancy Herndon and her employees. Authorities say that Anaya has an active arrest warrant.
Authorities are charging the five employees with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity. Herndon faces charges of Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity and First-Degree Money Laundering. "Illegal gambling operations are frequently associated with additional criminal activity, including violent offences, narcotics distribution and money laundering," the release reads. "GCSO remains committed to identifying, investigating, and dismantling such establishments to protect the safety and well-being of our communities."
Authorities bust another operation: Last month, the United States Attorney's Office claimed they charged a former postal worker. She pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
31-year-old Mary Ann Magdamit admitted to stealing bank cards from the mail over a three-year period. She then reportedly activated the cards online and used them for purchases and sold other cards to accomplices. Magdamit also stole checks, which her co-conspirators cashed using counterfeit IDs. Police reportedly raided her home and found 133 stolen cards alongside an unlicensed handgun. The former postal worker has a sentencing hearing next month and could face up to 30 years in prison.
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