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NewsWUSF (NPR Tampa Bay)August 26, 2026Hillsborough

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

Manatee County commissioners have finalized a new ordinance to restrict illegal gambling dens, allowing the county to issue cease-and-desist orders, civil citations, or criminal charges against operators. The measure, which follows investigative reporting on the proliferation of storefront casinos, establishes penalties including up to 60 days in jail and $500 fines for repeat offenders or those maintaining five or more gambling devices.

gamblinglaw enforcementlocal ordinancepublic safetyManatee County
Read the full story at WUSF (NPR Tampa Bay)

Why It Matters

The ordinance provides local law enforcement with new legal tools to shut down unregulated gambling businesses that have previously operated with minimal oversight in Manatee County.

Key Facts

  • The ordinance allows for cease-and-desist orders and civil citations against illegal gambling operators.
  • Operators can be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor for maintaining five or more gambling devices or repeat violations.
  • Penalties for a second-degree misdemeanor 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 modeled after a 2021 Marion County ordinance.
  • The Florida Gaming Commission reviewed the proposal and provided suggestions, which the commission chose not to incorporate.
  • Law enforcement reports indicate these businesses have been linked to burglaries, fights, stolen cars, and drug overdoses over the past five years.

Who's Mentioned

organizationFlorida Gaming Commission“State body that reviewed the proposed ordinance.”locationManatee County“Jurisdiction where the ordinance is being implemented.”personDerek Gilliam“Reporter for Suncoast Searchlight.”personJason Bearden“Manatee County Commissioner.”organizationSuncoast Searchlight“Nonprofit newsroom that investigated local gambling dens.”organizationBradenton Herald“Newsroom that co-investigated local gambling dens.”personTal Siddique“Commission Chairman who pushed for the ordinance.”personBob McCann“Manatee County Commissioner.”