A recent operation in Florida has led to the confiscation of 60 unauthorized slot machines from Uptown Bingo, a venue in Cape Coral that was allegedly functioning as a legal bingo hall. State officials have underscored that "not all bingo is legal" in light of this enforcement action.
The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) executed the raid in collaboration with the Cape Coral Police Department, labeling the initiative as Operation Going Downtown. Uptown Bingo, located on Santa Barbara Boulevard, has since been marked as permanently closed according to Google.
FGCC Commissioner Peter Cuderman stated, "Bingo is fun, and the FGCC supports lawful play. Unfortunately, criminals prey on Floridians by using a bingo theme on slot machines and falsely claiming these games are legal."
To clarify Florida's bingo regulations, only individuals aged 18 and older may participate in bingo games, including instant bingo played with paper cards. The Uptown Bingo website indicated that it provided both paper and electronic versions of bingo. However, state law explicitly disallows the playing of bingo or instant bingo through electronic devices that feature games of chance. Moreover, only specific organizations, such as charitable group, nonprofit entities, and veterans’ organizations, along with certain residential communities, are authorized to conduct traditional bingo in Florida.
The FGCC actively combats venues offering illegal gaming, having seized nearly $15 million during similar operations last year. Cape Coral Police Chief Anthony Sizemore asserted that his department is "committed to enforcing the law and ensuring businesses operate legally and responsibly within our community."
Sizemore expressed further concern, stating, "These illegal operations are more than just unauthorized games—they are unlawful businesses that undermine legitimate charitable gaming and can create opportunities for broader criminal activity."
Reviews on Google reveal mixed feelings about the community atmosphere at Uptown Bingo. One reviewer noted, "Whenever I visit my parents, I go play bingo with my mom here. The people are very nice and helpful. They remember all the regulars…and when I say all, I mean all! The snack bar serves decent food at reasonable prices. Thanks for helping make memories with my mom."
The venue asserts on its paper bingo cards that "pursuant to Florida state law, volunteers are not paid." However, other customers reported that staff members often request tips whenever a player wins any amount, while emphasizing that many players tend to lose money.
Additionally, while the venue legally offered bingo games using cards, it also featured "dirty slots," which were the focal point of the raid.
The FGCC and Cape Coral Police have urged community members to report any suspected illegal gambling establishments. They also reiterated that legal slots are available only at designated locations in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, as well as at facilities run by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
