Cook County Sheriff's deputies in south suburban Chicago have seized 31 video poker machines from businesses that allegedly were making illegal payouts.
Authorities say the largely unregulated machines taken from 10 bars, liquor stores and gas stations were supposed to be used "for amusement only," but players could bet up to $20 at a time.
Officials say employees gave illegal payments to players who won a certain number of points.
The sheriff's office says it seized $6,472 from the businesses.
No one was arrested, but authorities say some involved face misdemeanor gambling charges.
The machines were taken from locations that include Ford Heights, Markham, Midlothian, Chicago Ridge and Cicero.
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Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Authorities say the largely unregulated machines taken from 10 bars, liquor stores and gas stations were supposed to be used "for amusement only," but players could bet up to $20 at a time.
Officials say employees gave illegal payments to players who won a certain number of points.
The sheriff's office says it seized $6,472 from the businesses.
No one was arrested, but authorities say some involved face misdemeanor gambling charges.
The machines were taken from locations that include Ford Heights, Markham, Midlothian, Chicago Ridge and Cicero.
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Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
