WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina | Illegal gambling bust lands 10 behind bars

Illegal gambling bust lands 10 behind bars

DILLON COUNTY, SC (WMBF) - Agents with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division have recovered a large amount of gambling paraphernalia and $17,000 following an undercover gambling bust in Dillon County Tuesday morning.

Officials say they've been keeping a close eye on a select number of businesses on Hampton Street for months, under suspicion of illegal gambling activity. Tuesday morning's bust occurred at Lee's Pool Room and Randy's Pool Room, where 10 have been arrested so far. SLED officials said more arrests could come.

According to SLED, officers seized more than $17,000 in cash, seven cars, several guns, an illegal poker machine, pool tabs, moonshine, homemade wine and marijuana. Investigators say the suspects had been gambling on professional football and basketball games.

Authorities say the investigation has found a jackpot that could run up to $60,000 per month.

The Dillon Police Department and Dillon County Sheriff's Office assisted SLED agents in Tuesday's bust.

The following individuals have been arrested:

• Eddie Lee Kirby, 72 of Dillon, charged with punchboard for gambling
• Trashaune Lamar Jones, 31 of Dillon, charged with distribution of controlled substance, distribution of crack cocaine
• Alfonia McKellar, 60, of Hamer, charged with simple possession of marijuana, unlawful possession, gambling
• Johnny Lee Campbell, 43, of Dillon, charged with punchboard for gambling
• Willie McCollum Jr., 62, of Hamer, charged with gambling
• Joe Nathan McRae, 68, of Latta, charged with gambling
• Johnnie Lee Jennings, 65, of Dillon, charged with operating gambling house, simple possession of marijuana
• Jimmie Leon Campbell, 60, of Dillon, charged with punchboard for gambling
• James Arthur Samuel, 47, of Dillon, charged with gambling
• Bobby McRae Jr., 46, of Dillon, charged with gambling

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