ELLOREE - Six illegal video poker machines were seized by the Elloree Police Department on June 28, according to Police Chief J.P. Avinger.

A routine check of Ray's This and That by police uncovered the gambling operation, the police chief said.

"The Elloree Police Department shut down" the illegal video poker gambling operation, Avinger said.

"The police department seized six machines valued at $12,000 and $395 in cash," he said. "The business owner was charged with possession of machines/devices prohibited by law and possession of marijuana."



Six illegal video poker machines were seized by the Elloree Police Department from Ray's This and That business on June 28. The machines were valued at $12,000. The business owner was charged with possession of machines/devices prohibited by law and possession of marijuana. (Photo Special to The TandD)

Avinger said his department is also conducting an ongoing investigation into the supplier of the prohibited video poker machines.

"The Elloree Police Department will not tolerate any illegal gambling operations within the corporate limits of the town," the police chief said. "All information gained from our investigation will be forwarded to the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division, the S.C. State Department of Revenue and the Internal Revenue Service."

Anyone wishing to report such activity can contact Avinger or Investigator Lin Shirer at 803-897-2223 or by e-mail at epdchief@elloreesc.com.

"Anonymity will be assured," Avinger said.

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