Department of Justice (DOJ) special agents, along with local investigators, swept through four “internet cafes” in Hesperia on Tuesday, March 19.  It was a simultaneous sweep in which search warrants were served following a four-month  undercover investigation into illegal gaming operations.

“Often these gaming operations are brought to law enforcement’s attention by community members who are concerned about the people coming and going and the threat it  may pose to their safety and the safety of their children,” said Alan Barcelona, president of the California State Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA).  “Our CSLEA members who are special agents with DOJ’s Bureau of Gambling Control  went in undercover and were able to see what was going on inside and they were able to take part in illegal gaming activities.  There is always tremendous risk to any agent or officer who works undercover.”

The four-month investigation resulted in a 10-hour search of four businesses.  Investigators and special agents seized approximately 215 electronic gaming machines and what was described as a large amount of money. 

Investigators and special agents detained and questioned numerous people who were later released.  No arrests have been made but the investigation is on-going.