SAN JOSE, California — In the ongoing battle against underground casinos, law enforcement faced a significant challenge in the northern part of San Jose last Friday, January 5, 2024. Police conducted a raid on an alleged illegal gambling venue, which shockingly also harbored sexual trafficking activities and an on-site drug dealer.
Operated within a commercial building, the illicit enterprise led to the arrest of five suspects, identified as Saolepea Liu, Nido Nguyen, Phuong Nguyen, Windie Pratt, and Anai Garcia. The San Jose Police Department reported that the raid resulted in the discovery and seizure of 33 firearms, 500 pounds of marijuana, and approximately $20,000 in cash.
Read more: California Laws on Sex Trafficking in Commercial Establishments
As part of the operation, law enforcement officers extended assistance to several women employed at the facility. While the police did not specify human trafficking involvement, they highlighted that “adult female survivors employed at the brothel were also located and provided resources, assistance, and information about their rights.“
This incident is not isolated, as law enforcement agencies nationwide intensify efforts to crack down on illegal casinos. Recent months have seen raids in Florida, California, Ohio, Michigan, and other states. California, in particular, grapples with the proliferation of underground casinos, often operated by larger criminal organizations. Authorities reveal that some of these illegal gambling establishments around Los Angeles are believed to be under the control of Mexican cartels.
“It’s hidden in plain sight,” remarked Los Angeles County sheriff’s detective Richard Velasquez, emphasizing the clandestine nature of these gambling houses and brothels operated by organized crime. “You don’t know that it’s there until you know that it’s there.“
