In Georgia A Veterans Charity Store Is Raided Video Poker Games Seized

GRANTVILLE, GA -- Georgia law enforcement is cracking down on illegal gambling devices wherever they find them. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation recently arrested Clifford Leon Dyes, 68, for eight video poker games found in the back room of the Grantville Veterans Association & Thrift Store, where Dyes is the manager.

If found guilty of operating the illegal machines, Dyes could face up to five years in prison and be ordered to pay a $25,000 fine. According to Georgia law, all owners and operators of coin-operated amusement equipment must pay annual licensing fees. As of 2014, all video poker machines must be connected to the state lottery's central accounting system.

Dyes claimed the machines, which were fully operational, were used only for "lighting purposes" and had been in the store prior to new laws in effect.