Texas Mayor Caught Up in Gambling Scandal
The mayor of Hitchcock, Texas, is tangled up in a massive illegal gambling investigation.
On Wednesday, February 18, Galveston County law enforcement organized a large sting operation. The Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force executed 21 search warrants at 3 p.m. Tuesday in Hitchcock, Texas.
The area targeted is known by locals for its gambling machines.
"You can go to any store around here, ... it's a part of life out here," Stephen Blakley said. "I know they hand out vouchers for cash. I don't see anything wrong with it. There are worse things people can do -- drugs."
Gambling in Texas is a sticky topic.
Businesses like game rooms and gas stations are allowed to set up machines; however, there are some strict regulations. According to the city ordinance, if an establishment has fewer than 5 machines, it must pay $100 per machine every year. If there are more than 5, you must pay $100 per machine plus an extra $1000 fee annually.
Aside from those fees, one of the most important parts of the ordinance specifies that any wins from the machines must be paid out as a non-cash prize.
20 separate locations were believed to be operating illegally, including those in the City of Hitchcock.
"The City takes these allegations very seriously," Hitchcock City Manager Marie Gelles said.
As part of the sting, Hitchcock Mayor Chris Armacost was arrested and charged with engaging in organized criminal activity. Armacost also serves as an assistant
Superintendent and the district published a statement regarding the recent news:
"Hitchcock ISD is aware of the recent arrest of Chris Armacost. He remains an employee of the district as we are reviewing all applicable information. Due to this being a personnel-related matter, the district cannot provide further comment."
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