According to a report from Constable Mark Herman’s office, local officials cracked down on an illegal gambling house disguised as a legitimate business at a location in north Houston, exposing a hive of illegal activities and capturing thousands of dollars.
Detectives from Harris County Precinct 4’s Criminal Investigations Division carried out an undercover investigation based on tips, verifying unlawful gambling activity at 4444 FM 1960 Rd. W. The operation resulted in a raid in which authorities confiscated approximately $13,000 in gaming earnings, various illicit gambling equipment, and associated documents.
According to the Constable Precinct 4’s official Facebook post, law enforcement operations resulted in criminal charges being filed against Vivian Chagoya, a business employee, for possession of a gambling device/equipment/paraphernalia. The operation found that numerous persons were engaging in illicit gaming activities in the area, raising worries about the potential hazards to community safety.
Constable Herman described the impact of illegal gambling operations, stating, “Illegal gambling establishments attract a wide variety of criminal activity that puts our community’s safety at risk” and highlighting that “the proceeds from these establishments are used to fund very serious criminal enterprises.” He further stated that the establishments violate the “peace and dignity of the state of Texas.” According to the Constable’s office, such businesses are frequently linked to larger crime networks under investigation.
To combat these operations, citizens are asked to report any suspicions of unlawful gaming. For anonymous tips, call the Constable’s dispatch at 281-376-3472 or on their website.
