Venice Woman Arrested After Illegal Gambling Bust at Social Club
A months-long investigation into illegal gambling in Sarasota County led to an arrest this week after deputies shut down an alleged gambling operation at a Venice, Florida social club.
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office said Taylor Swim, 28, was taken into custody Jan. 28 at the 41 Social Club, located at 1978 S. Tamiami Trail. Authorities say Swim was running an illegal gambling operation out of the business, despite having previously been warned by law enforcement.
The arrest followed a joint investigation conducted by the sheriff’s office and the Florida Gaming Control Commission, focusing on several suspected gambling locations across the county.
What Investigators Found Inside the 41 Social Club
During the execution of a search warrant at the 41 Social Club, deputies seized dozens of items they say were tied to illegal gambling activity. According to SCSO, those included:
- 66 slot machines inside the business
- Cash believed to be connected to gambling activity
- A cease-and-desist letter previously issued to the club
The cease-and-desist notice, which deputies say was recovered during the search, had been delivered to the business in April 2025. Authorities did not specify whether any changes were made by the club after receiving the warning.
Swim was charged with keeping and maintaining a gambling house, as well as possession of slot machines. She was booked into the Sarasota County Correctional Facility following her arrest.
Arrest Tied to Countywide Illegal Gambling Investigation
Sheriff’s officials emphasized that the Venice bust was not an isolated case, but rather part of a wider effort to curb illegal gambling throughout Sarasota County. Investigators say the operation at the 41 Social Club was one of multiple locations uncovered during the months-long probe.
Law enforcement agencies have increasingly targeted illegal arcades and social clubs that operate slot machines outside of Florida’s tightly regulated framework. These operations often attempt to present themselves as sweepstakes cafés or private clubs, but investigators say many still function as unlicensed gambling houses.
In a statement following the arrest, Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman reiterated the department’s stance on illegal gambling enforcement.
“We will continue our partnership with the Florida Gaming Control Commission focusing on the same goal of shutting down these illegal gambling businesses in our community,” Hoffman said. “To our citizens, we hear you, and we will continue to hold them accountable.”
Investigation remains ongoing
Authorities have not ruled out additional arrests or charges as the investigation continues. The sheriff’s office said it is still reviewing evidence collected during the search and evaluating other locations connected to the broader inquiry.
For now, deputies say the closure of the 41 Social Club marks another step in the county’s ongoing crackdown on illegal gambling operations operating outside state law.
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