TPD Arrests Three in Connection to Illegal Sports Betting House Raid in Tampa

Tampa Police Department cracks down on illegal sports betting operation

Three suspects have been arrested in connection to an illegal sports betting house in Tampa, Florida. The Tampa Police Department conducted a 14-month investigation that led to the bust of an illegal gambling house at All Stars Tampa Domino Club on West Waters Avenue.

The suspects, identified as Marcelino Perez, Charlie Parilla, and Kendrick Franklin, were taken into custody after authorities discovered the operation was running seven days a week, focusing on placing illegal sports bets. Undercover detectives placed six bets totaling $940 over the course of the investigation, including wagers on a Celtics-Raptors NBA game.

“This is more than just sports betting,” said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. “This is an illegal business that was set up.”

During the search warrant, officers seized computers, receipts used for illegal gambling, over $12,000 in cash, and a semi-automatic pistol. The suspects are facing charges ranging from conspiracy to bookmaking to RICO violations.

In court, the suspects were represented by the same attorney, who declined to comment. Bond was set at $52,650 for Perez, $57,650 for Franklin, and $62,650 for Parilla.

Under Florida law, all sports betting must be exclusively conducted by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The Tampa Police Department warned against running illegal gambling operations in the city.

“The success of this operation is a testament to the tireless work and attention to detail shown by our officers,” said Chief Bercaw. “To anyone thinking about running an illegal gambling operation in Tampa, consider this your warning.”

The information in this story was released by the Tampa Police Department.