TITUSVILLE, Fla. (CBS12) — In a landmark initiative aimed at tackling illegal gambling, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced on Friday the takedown of approximately 40 unlawful gambling operations across multiple counties in the state.

“These locations are not just harmless spots for games like bingo or Uno; they are sophisticated operations that can lead to serious criminal activity,” Uthmeier stated.

During the news conference in Titusville, Uthmeier described this operation as the largest and first of its kind and said that the sting operation resulted in the closure of 39 illegal gambling locations in Volusia, Brevard, Duval, and Flagler counties.

The illegal gambling locations were described as restaurants, bars, convenience stores, and arcade centers, which officials said are essentially strip mall casinos.

Officials said that the operation saw the seizure of 525 gambling machines and nearly $200,000 in cash, with expectations that the amount will increase as further investigations unfold.

Uthmeier warned the public about the dangers of illegal gambling, stating that those who think they can play risk-free at places like nail salons are deluding themselves. “If you believe these operations are legitimate, think again. They are illegal and fraught with risks,” he emphasized, urging residents to stay away from such facilities.

The attorney general said that there is a misconception held by some judges that illegal gambling is a minor issue. “It is dangerous, and it disrupts our communities. We are committed to stopping it,” he asserted.

Uthmeier continued, stating, “You almost always see connections to money laundering, to human and drug trafficking, to burglary, drugs, weapons. It is serious. And here in Florida, it is going to stop. Rule of law is not just a slogan here. It is a commitment.”

Joining Uthmeier were Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly, Volusia County Sheriff Michael Chitwood, and Florida Gaming Control Commission Chair Julie Brown, who helped in the takedown of the illegal operations.

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Uthmeier praised the efforts of local sheriffs, police chiefs, and federal partners in enhancing Florida’s response to illegal gambling, emphasizing the newly established Florida Gaming Control Commission.

“This commission, which emerged from the Seminole Gaming Compact negotiations, aims to focus on unlawful gaming with more independence and authority,” Uthmeier noted.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy that extends beyond just a single operation. Uthmeier promised residents that more actions are forthcoming, with plans to expand these efforts throughout Florida. “This is just the beginning. Over the next few years, you will see increased enforcement across the state,” he said.

Additionally, Uthmeier called for increased penalties related to illegal gambling. Currently classified as misdemeanors, he expressed hope that the legislature would take steps to upgrade these offenses to felonies, making the risks of engaging in illegal gambling much more substantial.

For individuals interested in gambling, Uthmeier emphasized the availability of legal options, such as the Hard Rock online betting application and licensed gaming facilities. “These options are safe, regulated, and contribute necessary funds to state education and infrastructure,” he explained. “Stay away from illegal gambling — it could lead to serious legal trouble.”