Published on: December 25, 2024, 05:22h.
Last updated on: December 25, 2024, 05:22h.
Two family members accused of running illegal gambling establishments in Michigan were sentenced to probation this month and avoided jail time.
Shaun M. Bellah Sr., 44, from Davison, Mich., and Shaun M. Bellah II, 24, from Highland, Mich., need to complete their probation successfully.
The elder defendant received a two-year probation sentence, and must pay $130 in fines, along with $136 in fees and court costs. His son was given a one-year probation sentence and must pay a $130 fine, as well as $68 in fees and court costs.
Michigan Circuit Court Judge Richard D. Ball imposed the sentences.
The cases stemmed from a joint investigation by the Michigan Attorney General’s office and the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB).
Officials stated that the pair ran illegal storefront gambling venues known as The State Road Spot in Davison and The Bristol Spot in Burton, both in Genesee County, Michigan.
Two Locations Raided
During raids in 2022, authorities seized 100 gambling devices, $29,204 in cash, and 62 gift cards from the establishments.
Initially, both men faced charges of running a criminal enterprise, conspiring to run a criminal enterprise, operating a gambling venture without a license, and using computers for criminal activities.
Plea Bargains
However, they struck deals in which they pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of operating a gambling house for profit. The older Bellah also pleaded guilty to running a gambling operation without a license.
If they complete their probation successfully, they will avoid harsher penalties. Without probation and plea deals, they could have faced prison time.
State officials affirm that these cases demonstrate Michigan’s commitment to enforcing gambling laws.
This case highlights our firm dedication to upholding the integrity of our state’s gaming industry,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams stated in a recent release. “We will continue to collaborate closely with the Michigan Attorney General’s office to identify and prosecute individuals attempting to bypass our laws.
In addition, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel emphasized how her office and the MGCB “teamed up to dismantle a significant unlicensed gambling operation, confiscating 100 illegal gaming machines and substantial illicit profits.”