This afternoon, September 10, the Lufkin Police Department has been busy seizing eight liners from six for-cash gambling locations across the city. Around 3:30 p.m., a seizure operation began on eight liners at the following locations:

• 1702 S. First St.
• 911 Ellis Ave.
• 2213 S. First St.
• 502 E. Denman Ave.  
• 210 S. Timberland Drive
• 2412 N. Raguet St.

According to officials with the Lufkin Police Department, these locations have become a magnet for criminal activity. Detectives began investigating the matter following months of increased criminal activity at the locations including an armed robbery at 2213 South Street along with numerous citizen complaints. 

Officers have responded to these locations a total of over one hundred thirty times since the for-cash gambling machines have been in operation. In addition to the armed robbery, officers have responded for illegal drug activity, fights in progress, stolen vehicles, theft, burglary, assaults, terroristic threats, and criminal mischief, according to Lufkin Police Chief David Thomas.

“Although operating a gambling establishment in and of itself is illegal, we are most concerned with other calls for service that they attract like armed robberies, fights, crimes against persons, and the general quality of life in the area,” Thomas said.

The game room managers are being identified, and their information will be added to evidence that will be presented to the Angelina County District Attorney’s office for possible prosecution.

“Patrons of the game rooms will be identified and released at the scene after being checked for warrants,” Thomas added.

The case remains under investigation according to Lufkin Police.