POLISCOPE
Back to feed
NewsWUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)August 26, 2026Hillsborough

Manatee County advances ordinance to penalize illegal 'adult arcade' gambling operations

Manatee County commissioners have finalized a new ordinance to crack down on illegal storefront casinos by authorizing cease-and-desist orders, civil citations, and criminal penalties for operators. The measure, which follows investigative reporting on the proliferation of unregulated gambling dens, will head to public hearings starting September 22.

gamblinglaw enforcementlocal ordinanceManatee Countypublic safety
Read the full story at WUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)

Why It Matters

The ordinance provides local law enforcement with new legal tools to shut down illegal gambling businesses that have previously operated with minimal oversight, potentially reducing criminal activity associated with these sites.

Key Facts

  • The ordinance authorizes cease-and-desist orders and civil citations for illegal gambling operators.
  • Operators maintaining five or more gambling devices or repeat offenders face second-degree misdemeanor charges.
  • Penalties for second-degree misdemeanors include up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
  • The ordinance targets 'adult arcades' and storefront casinos using simulated gambling devices or electronic slot machines.
  • The first of two required public hearings is scheduled for September 22.
  • The ordinance was developed in response to investigations identifying over 20 illegal gambling dens in the region.
  • The proposal mirrors language from a 2021 Marion County ordinance.
  • The Florida Gaming Commission reviewed the proposal and provided suggestions, which the county chose not to incorporate.
  • Law enforcement reports that these businesses are linked to burglaries, fights, stolen cars, and drug overdoses.

Who's Mentioned

organizationFlorida Gaming Commission“State body that reviewed the proposed ordinance.”organizationManatee County Sheriff’s Office“Law enforcement agency tasked with enforcement.”locationManatee County“Jurisdiction where the ordinance is being implemented.”personJason Bearden“Manatee County Commissioner.”organizationSuncoast Searchlight“News organization that investigated illegal gambling dens.”organizationBradenton Herald“News organization that investigated illegal gambling dens.”personTal Siddique“Manatee County Commission Chairman.”personBob McCann“Manatee County Commissioner.”