
Key points:
- Those sentenced were involved in an illegal gambling operation in Flint called Hot Spot Skill Arcade
- All five were charged with operating the gambling business without a license
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has released details regarding the prosecution and sentencing of five people involved in an illegal gambling storefront operation in Flint.
An investigation into activity at Hot Spot Skill Arcade, located at 5542 Fenton Road led to charges against five people. The defendants were charged with operating a gaming facility without a license.
Hot Spot offered 41 casino-style games, according to the MGCB report.
MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams commented, “We are thankful to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and her team for their tireless efforts in bringing those responsible for this illegal gambling operation to justice.
“This prosecution demonstrates the commitment of the MGCB and our law enforcement partners to uphold the integrity of legal gaming in Michigan, and to hold individuals accountable for violating our laws.”
Michael Bixby, 48, of Holly, received a sentence of 24 months of probation, along with a $130 fine and $318 in fees and court costs.
Jeffrey Ladd, 52, of Ortonville, was ordered to pay a $130 fine and $68 in fees and court costs and was sentenced to 18 months of probation.
Victoria Adams, 64, of Flint, was sentenced to 6 months of probation, a $130 fine, $318 in fees and court costs,
Courtney Thompson, 57, formerly of Fenton, was sentenced to 6 months of probation, and was ordered to pay a $130 fine.
The court approved transferring Thompson’s probation to Indiana, where he currently lives and works.
Bixby, Ladds, Adams and Thompson were also ordered to forfeit items linked to the illegal operation, the regulator said.
Michelle Teall, 58, of Holly, received 6 months of probation, plus a $130 fine and $68 in fees and court costs.
“This successful prosecution serves as a testament to the strength of collaboration between state and local authorities in protecting our community from illegal activities,” Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley said. “Flint is committed to fostering a safe and lawful environment for its residents, and we will continue to support efforts that uphold integrity and justice.”
The regulator recently announced that Linos Antonio Kas-Mikha, 52, of Grand Blanc, and Robert Jamerson, 55, of Saginaw, appeared in 7th Circuit Court in Genesee County for sentencing, after both pleading guilty to one count of conducting a gambling operation at Cellular Bank without a license.
Both defendants were sentenced to 12 months of probation.