A recent operation in Cape Coral, Florida, led to the seizure of 60 illegal slot machines from Uptown Bingo, a venue that was misleadingly presenting itself as a legal bingo establishment. Authorities are using this incident to remind residents that "not all bingo is legal."
The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) conducted the raid in partnership with the Cape Coral Police Department. This enforcement action, referred to as Operation Going Downtown, targeted Uptown Bingo located on Santa Barbara Boulevard. Following the raid, the venue has been marked as permanently closed on Google listings.
FGCC Commissioner Peter Cuderman commented in a press release, "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."
Authorities clarified that individuals aged 18 and over can legally participate in bingo, including instant bingo, when played with paper cards. However, Uptown Bingo’s website promotes both paper and electronic bingo games.
Florida law explicitly prohibits bingo and instant bingo played on electronic devices that showcase games of chance. Only certain organizations, such as charitable, nonprofit, and veterans' groups, along with specific residential communities, are authorized to run traditional bingo in the state.
Last year, the FGCC targeted illegal gaming venues like Uptown Bingo, resulting in the seizure of nearly $15 million in various raids. Cape Coral Police Chief Anthony Sizemore emphasized his department's commitment to law enforcement, stating, "These illegal operations are more than just unauthorized games—they undermine legitimate charitable gaming and can foster further criminal activity."
Mixed reviews from customers reflect a community-oriented 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’s paper bingo cards indicate that "pursuant to Florida state law, volunteers are not paid." However, some reviewers remarked that staff solicited tips whenever a player won, with many players reporting losses instead. Some patrons also pointed out that while legal card games were offered, the venue hosted "dirty slots," ultimately leading to the recent law enforcement action.
The FGCC, along with the Cape Coral police, urged the community to report any suspected illegal gambling operations. They also reminded residents that slot machines are only authorized in specific locations within Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, as well as at establishments operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
