SAN ANTONIO – Recently, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office took action against a gaming room on the North Side, alleging that it was involved in illegal gambling activities.
The owner, Carrie Gutierrez, claims she was open about her business from the very beginning and believed everything was legal. “The city knew exactly what we were opening,” she stated. Gutierrez emphasized that she had paid all necessary state taxes and had even secured a certificate of occupancy.
Despite her assertions, the sheriff’s office conducted a raid, resulting in the arrest of three employees and citations for eight others. The three arrested—Kambry Ybarra, Alissa Arenas, and Anthony Vera—are facing serious charges, including gambling promotion and engaging in organized crime.
Gutierrez mentioned that she is providing support for her employees, covering their legal fees and helping them navigate their arrests. She also expressed concern over financial losses, as the sheriff’s office deactivated all 50 of her gaming machines during the raid, potentially costing her around $80,000.
The sheriff’s office explained that the operation was deemed illegal because winners were awarded beads that had a cash value. These beads could then be exchanged for real money, which they classified as a form of gambling promotion. “Whether an operator pays out in cash, check, or a physical item,” they stated, “it is classified as Gambling Promotion and/or Keeping a Gambling Place.”
Adding to Gutierrez’s troubles, she reported that thieves used a sledgehammer to break into the business, targeting an ATM inside. Unfortunately for the thieves, the ATM was empty at the time of their break-in.
This incident raises questions about the legality and regulation of gaming operations in San Antonio, as Gutierrez noted that many similar game rooms exist in the area without facing similar scrutiny. As this story unfolds, it highlights the complexities surrounding gambling laws and the implications for small business owners like Gutierrez.
For more information on the legal status of gaming operations in Texas, you can refer to the Texas Penal Code or consult local legal resources.
