During the Copperas Cove City Council Workshop meeting on Tuesday evening, Sgt. Steve O’Neal from the Copperas Cove Police Department addressed the growing issue of illegal gaming establishments in the town. Unlike games such as Dungeons and Dragons or Magic cards, these establishments involve gambling.
Sgt. O’Neal highlighted the proliferation of these businesses in Texas, noting that Copperas Cove currently hosts multiple gaming establishments, including Gold Rush, KG’s Amusement Center, the Parlor at Five Hills, Cyber Café Charity Sweepstakes, Surf N Sip Internet Café, Veteran Charity Sweepstakes, and the newly established Shamrock Sweepstakes. Another location, Lucky’s Cove on S F.M. 116, was also mentioned.
These establishments, often labeled as sweepstakes or computer cafes, have adapted to avoid direct association with gambling. Instead of traditional casino machines, they use computers where customers can buy internet time and potentially win money through various games. Despite their efforts to appear legal, O’Neal emphasized that these operations are essentially gambling.
According to Texas law (TPC 47.01-(4)), a gambling device is any machine that allows a player to win something of value based on chance, regardless of the level of skill involved. This includes electronic versions of bingo, keno, blackjack, and other similar games that award credits or free games.
O’Neal explained that businesses attempt to skirt the law by offering non-cash prizes, such as gift cards. However, a Texas Appeals Court ruling affirmed that gift cards are considered as gifts of money, thus qualifying as gambling.
O’Neal cited various problems associated with these establishments, such as crime and gambling addiction. A 2006 California Prevalence Survey indicated that patrons of these businesses are significantly more likely to be involved in criminal activities or substance abuse. He also detailed the impact on crime rates, mentioning an increase in aggravated robberies, thefts, burglaries, property damage, and narcotics incidents.
Gold Rush Sweepstakes on S. 2nd St. alone experienced two burglary and theft incidents in March, with over $7,000 stolen.
George Duncan, a local business owner, shared his experience with an internet café he previously rented space to, which led to a surge in crime and multiple 911 calls. He noted that neighboring businesses continue to face similar issues with sweepstakes parlors.
Currently, Copperas Cove lacks specific ordinances to regulate these establishments. Existing ordinances cover traditional game rooms and pool halls but not sweepstakes cafes. O’Neal suggested revising these ordinances to include requirements such as transparent windows and clear signage, similar to regulations in Austin.
Some cities, like Lacy Lakeview, have opted to shut down these parlors entirely. Duncan inquired about the possibility of evicting such establishments, as their presence negatively affects surrounding businesses and residents.
One significant challenge is the reluctance of county prosecutors to pursue cases against these establishments due to legal loopholes. While running an illegal gambling operation is a misdemeanor, organized criminal activity related to these businesses would escalate the charges to a felony, making them prosecutable by the District Attorney.
City Manager Andrea Gardner supported O’Neal’s suggestion of amending ordinances to make it less attractive for such businesses to operate in Copperas Cove. She requested that the police department draft an ordinance to give law enforcement the tools needed to address this issue effectively.
In summary, the crackdown on illegal gaming establishments in Copperas Cove aims to reduce crime and protect the community. By revising ordinances and enhancing enforcement, the city hopes to curb the proliferation of these businesses and maintain a safer environment for its residents.
