Image: Columbia Police Department / Facebook.
Article by Olivia Lupia, Tennessee Conservative News –
A large-scale multi-agency illegal gambling investigation spearheaded by the Columbia Police Department led to 13 arrests and the seizure of drugs, gambling machines, and more than $1.3 million in cash as authorities executed search warrants at over 20 local businesses and two homes last Tuesday.
Other agencies partnering with the Columbia Police Department (CPD) included the Gallatin Police Department, the Portland Police Department, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), TN Comptroller of the Treasury, 22nd Judicial District Drug Task Force, 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
According to Columbia Police Chief Jeremy Haywood, the investigation began in July after CPD and the Mayor’s Office received multiple complaints from citizens and business owners about suspected illegal gambling activities, leading to the lengthy investigation which included undercover CPD officers visiting 50 local businesses. 20 of these were reportedly engaged in illegal gambling, paying out winnings from gambling machines.
Law enforcement noted that during the investigation they noticed gambling payouts involving minors believed to be as young as 9 or 10 years old, increased drug activity at some locations, and identified two homes, one in Columbia and one in Gallatin, where proceeds connected to the gambling ring were allegedly being kept.
Ultimately, via the 22 executed search warrants, authorities say they seized $1,328,269 in cash, over 100 pounds or kratom and THCA, and 144 gambling machines.
“This was a lengthy and complex investigation, and I want to begin by thanking every law enforcement agency that worked alongside the Columbia Police Department to make this operation possible,” said Chief Haywood. “Our investigators spent weeks gathering evidence and identifying illegal activity occurring throughout our community. The results of this operation demonstrate the professionalism of our officers and the strength of the partnerships we have with law enforcement agencies at the local, state and federal levels.”
Haywood also confirmed that 10 of the arrested individuals were taken into ICE custody, indicating they are likely in the country illegally, and officials expect more indictments and arrests in connection with the ongoing investigation.
Mayor Chaz Molder offered praise to CPD and the success of the operation. “I want to commend the Columbia Police Department for their efforts [Tuesday], which were the culmination of a months-long investigation into illegal gambling activities taking place in our community. I am grateful for the safety of everyone involved during this large-scale operation, and I anticipate the successful prosecution of these cases in the criminal justice system. There’s no place for illegal activities in our community,” he said.
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About the Author: Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
One Response
I’ve zero problem with kratom and THCA, only with those providing it to kids.
Most Republicans don’t understand God’s word.
Genesis 1:29
And God GOD!! said, Behold, I have given you(for your judicious responsible use) every EVERY!! herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, AND(also) every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.