Introduction to the Incident
Dozens of people were detained Monday after police uncovered what officers described as an “underground casino” in Van Nuys.
The Discovery
What started as a response to a possible burglary led to the discovery shortly before 3 a.m. on the 16100 block of Leadwell Street. Officers responded to an alarm coming from a building in the area and spotted the person they were searching for heading north on the rooftops.
Initial Findings
When they approached one particular building, officers found evidence of a secret gambling ring.
Reactions from Detained Individuals
Melissa Cruz, one of several individuals detained in connection with the operation, described it as “little kid games.”
“You go to Chuck E. Cheese or Shakey’s and they have some of these games in there,” she said. Cruz added that she didn’t consider it gambling and likened the operation as more of a club for adults.
Testimony from Another Detainee
Another woman who identified herself as Cheyenne said she received a citation for being present at an illegal gambling place.
Aftermath and Investigation
It’s unclear in total how many people were cited or detained. The investigation into the underground casino is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full extent of the operation and those involved.
Conclusion
The discovery of the underground casino in Van Nuys highlights the ongoing issue of illegal gambling operations in the area. The fact that it was uncovered during a response to a possible burglary underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community awareness in combating such activities.
FAQs
- Q: What led to the discovery of the underground casino?
- A: The discovery was made during a police response to a possible burglary in the Van Nuys area.
- Q: How did the individuals involved describe the operation?
- A: Some individuals described it as playing “little kid games” and likened it to a club for adults, not considering it as gambling.
- Q: What is the current status of the investigation?
- A: The investigation is ongoing, with the total number of people cited or detained not yet fully disclosed.
- Q: What does this incident reveal about the community?
- A: It highlights the presence of illegal gambling operations and the need for continued law enforcement efforts and community vigilance.
