(AsiaGameHub) –   Carrie Vera Gutierrez, the proprietor of a gaming room on the North Side of Bexar County, Texas, that was targeted in the “Blessed Sweepstakes” illegal gambling raid nearly a month ago, has been taken into custody and is now confronting a state felony charge.

Texas Owner of Blessed Sweepstakes Arrested

This arrest comes after a March 31 operation by BCSO deputies at a establishment named Blessed Sweepstakes, where law enforcement dismantled what they characterized as an illicit gambling enterprise. In the course of the raid, three workers – Anthony Vera, 51, Alissa Arenas, 23, and Kambry Ybarra, 27 = were detained on associated charges, and eight additional individuals were issued citations.

According to the sheriff’s office, the enterprise was unlawful due to a system where game winners received beads assigned a specific monetary value, which were subsequently redeemable for US currency. Investigators clarified that this method of indirect payment still breaches Texas statute, as it represents both the encouragement of gambling and the management of a gambling venue.

Court documents reveal that deputies seized approximately 50 video slot machines, $5,445 in cash, and assorted gambling gear and paraphernalia during the search. The affidavit indicates Gutierrez was not present at the premises during the operation. Jail records confirm she was arrested on Friday and has been released after posting bond.

Records show that Gutierrez is charged with four offenses: engaging in organized criminal activity, possession of a gambling device/equipment/paraphernalia, gambling promotion, and keeping a gambling place. The initial charge is a state felony, with the remaining three categorized as Class A misdemeanors.

Is Gambling in Texas Legal?

Texas maintains a complex stance on gambling, with the majority of its forms being prohibited, which led to the necessity of Gutierrez’s arrest. Reports suggest, however, that she may not have been cognizant of any illegality. She had earlier informed media outlets that she operated under the belief her business was lawful, pointing out that city authorities were informed of its activities and that she had secured a certificate of occupancy.

Although gambling, with a few exceptions, continues to be illegal in the state, there have been numerous efforts to broaden its legality. Recent legislative discussions on gambling, however, have reached an impasse, as Texas Governor Greg Abbott remains reluctant to support casino expansion amid criticisms highlighting potential adverse consequences like addiction and threats to sports integrity.

For the time being, and regardless of whether gambling is eventually expanded, residents of Texas seeking to gamble are limited to the Texas Lottery, parimutuel betting on horse and greyhound racing, certain raffles, and the three Native American casinos located within the state.

In a related note on the Texas Lottery, a fortunate participant recently secured a $2 million prize in a Powerball drawing.