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In the past two weeks, vice investigators and other deputies have raided four illegal game rooms throughout Harris County, resulting in charges against at least four people and the confiscation of $35,591 in cash, 200 gambling machine circuit boards and eight gambling devices.

The most recent bust was Tuesday at the Horse Shoe game room at 810 Sheldon Road on the east side, a few hours after a teen opened fire at the entrance, in an apparent robbery attempt, and was charged later with aggravated assault. A pregnant woman accompanying him was seriously wounded and a customer was shot in the leg.

Charges are pending against the owner for operating an illegal cash pay-out gambling operation. More than $14,000 in cash was seized along with gambling equipment.

The actions come after a new state law went into effect making it easier for law enforcement to file charges against such gambling operations, which often run on a "fly by night" basis.

"Illegal game rooms not only harbor illegal gambling but often are dens of other types of crimes such as theft," Sheriff Adrian Garcia said. "And law-abiding taxpayers don't want these operations in their neighborhoods. We'll continue to keep the pressure on."

On July 19 with the help of Precinct 5 constable's deputies, a game room at 5500 Barker Cypress Rd., Suite #107 on the west side, was raided. Carolyn Chancy, 60, was charged with possession of illegal gambling devices; cash and equipment were confiscated.

On July 11, the Pik N Go convenience store at 11945 Barwood Bend Drive was busted. Syed Haidry, 54, was charged with possession of illegal gambling devices; cash and equipment were confiscated.

On July 9 with the help of Precinct 3 constable's deputies, a game room at 12611 Woodfirest Blvd., #A, was raided. Amy Mares, 27, and Linda Sarabia, 56, were charged with possession of illegal gambling devices; cash and equipment were confiscated.
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