Attorney General Hanaway Broadcasts Profitable Unlawful Gaming Seizure In Washington County

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Today, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway introduced that her workplace, alongside the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC), the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Potosi Police Department, efficiently seized 9 unlawful digital playing units from an unlawful gaming operation in Washington County.

“Missouri’s crackdown on illegal gaming is not letting up,” stated Attorney General Hanaway. “Working alongside local law enforcement, we will continue to enforce the law relentlessly in every county, dismantle illegal gaming operations, and protect our neighborhoods from the crime and disorder these gambling halls bring.”

On August 20, 2026, regulation enforcement executed a search warrant at Potosi Discount Liquor in Washington County. Officers seized 9 playing units and greater than $27,000 in money—one among MSHP’s largest single‑location money seizures. According to investigators, the cash represented roughly a two‑week payout from machines working on the location.

“This investigation represents another coordinated law enforcement effort to address illegal gambling activity,” stated MSHP DDCC Sergeant Bradley Germann. “From small towns to large metropolitan areas, these illicit gambling devices present significant challenges for both communities and law enforcement. We are appreciative of the strong interagency partnership with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office and our local law enforcement partners. DDCC will continue its investigative efforts to combat illegal gambling activity across the state.”

“These machines are not harmless—they exploit our citizens and can fuel other criminal activity,” stated Washington County Sheriff Dwayne Reed. “Working with the Attorney General’s Office and our law‑enforcement partners, we’re committed to removing illegal gaming from Washington County.”

In February 2026, a decide declared that so-called “no chance” machines “meet the statutory definition of ‘gambling device’ and are therefore illegal under Missouri law when played outside a licensed casino.” More not too long ago, a court docket dismissed the lawsuit that sought to enjoin General Hanaway’s enforcement of Missouri’s playing legal guidelines towards these gaming machines.

“The Potosi Police Department is proud to partner with the Attorney General’s Office and our law enforcement partners. I share Sheriff Reed’s sentiments and agree these illegal gaming devices need to be removed from our community,” stated Potosi Chief of Police Michael Gum.

To any enterprise at the moment internet hosting or working unlawful gaming units, Attorney General Hanaway calls for that you just stop operation and take away the units instantly. The Attorney General’s Office will proceed working with regulation enforcement companions statewide to establish and cease unlawful gaming operations wherever they happen.

The Attorney General’s Office reminds the general public that, as in all legal issues, any defendants are presumed harmless except and till confirmed responsible in a court docket of regulation.

Photos from the Potosi Discount Liquor retailer and the proof seized can be found on the Missouri Attorney General’s Flickr web page here.