The crackdown on illegal gambling operations in Florida intensified in 2025 as the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) reported a significant increase in cash and slot machine seizures compared to the prior year.
In 2025, the FGCC revealed that it seized $14,474,336 in illegal gambling proceeds and confiscated 6,725 illegal slot machines during its enforcement actions. This marked a substantial rise from 2024, where the agency seized $7,110,613 and 1,287 illegal slot machines connected to unauthorized gaming operations.
According to the commission, these enforcement measures focused on illegal casinos that operate beyond Florida’s regulated gaming framework. Officials credited intensified oversight and collaboration with various law enforcement agencies across the state for these efforts.
“I express my gratitude to Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for their continued backing of the Florida Gaming Control Commission,” said FGCC Executive Director Alana Zimmer. “Their dedication enhances Florida’s gambling regulations and safeguards our communities. FGCC remains committed to curbing illegal gambling through robust enforcement actions statewide, showcasing the commitment of FGCC’s law enforcement personnel.”
In January 2025, FGCC representatives, prosecutors, and sheriffs appeared before state lawmakers to seek expanded authority to combat illegal gaming. Law enforcement officials highlighted that many enforcement actions involved repeat offenders, with existing penalties heavily reliant on fines.
Lawmakers subsequently passed SB 2500, which was signed into law by Ron DeSantis. The FGCC stated that this new legislation affords additional enforcement tools for the agency in 2025.
The commission reported enhanced collaboration with law enforcement partners throughout the year, including the establishment of 29 new memoranda of understanding with local, state, and federal agencies. These agreements facilitated joint investigations and enforcement operations against illegal gambling activities.
Numerous enforcement actions in 2025 were widely publicized, involving cooperation with multiple local agencies, as noted by the FGCC.
The FGCC asserted that slot machines utilized in illegal establishments undergo no state testing or regulation, leaving players without guarantees of fair play, accurate payouts, or basic consumer protections. The agency emphasized that illegal operators also evade tax reporting, leading to decreased revenue for state and local governments.
According to Florida law, slot machines are only permitted in licensed gaming locations. Legal slot machines can be found in eight licensed pari-mutuel establishments across Miami-Dade and Broward counties as well as certain venues operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Providing slot machine gaming or illegal gambling at unlicensed sites is strictly forbidden statewide.
The FGCC asserted that its enforcement efforts will persist in alignment with its mandate to oversee authorized gaming activities and target unlawful operations across Florida.