Columbia Illegal Gambling Investigation Leads to $1.3 Million Seizure, 13 Arrests

A large-scale illegal gambling investigation in Columbia resulted in 13 arrests and the seizure of more than $1.3 million in cash Tuesday.

According to the City of Columbia, officers and agents executed 22 search warrants at 20 businesses and two residences. Authorities seized $1,328,269 in cash, 144 gambling machines and more than 100 pounds of kratom and THCA.

The investigation began in July after the Columbia Police Department and Mayor’s Office received complaints about suspected illegal gambling. Undercover officers subsequently visited 50 Columbia businesses and reportedly found 20 conducting illegal gambling and paying winnings from gambling machines.

Investigators said they also observed gambling payouts involving minors believed to be as young as 9 or 10 and noted increased drug activity at some of the locations.

The operation involved the Columbia and Gallatin Police Departments, Portland Police Department, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office and 22nd Judicial Drug Task Force.

Columbia Police Chief Jeremy Haywood said investigators spent weeks gathering evidence and identifying illegal activity throughout the community.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities say additional indictments are anticipated.