🚔 Coordinated Multi-Agency Raids on Illegal Gambling Operations

📍 Locations Raided (7 Businesses):

1. Pony Express Truck Stop – 304 I-20 East, Marshall, TX

2. Poplar Store – 1001 Poplar St., Marshall, TX

3. Skill Games – 5206 FM 968, Longview, TX

4. Grab & Go – 4204 US Highway 59, Marshall, TX

5. Wanda’s – 15229 FM 968, Longview, TX

6. Valero – 6135 US Highway 80, Longview, TX

7. Wildcat Grocery – 13863 FM 450, Harleton, TX

📦 Seized During Raids:

• 70 illegal gambling machines

• Methamphetamine and illegal THC products

• Evidence to support ongoing investigations

👮‍♀️ Agencies Involved:

• Marshall Police Department (Patrol & Criminal Investigations)

• Harrison County Sheriff’s Office

• Harrison County Fire Marshal

• Harrison County District Attorney’s Office

All seven search warrants were issued by 71st District Judge Brad Morin following an extensive investigation.

👤 Arrests & Charges

• Several individuals were arrested (exact number not disclosed).

• Charges expected:

  • Illegal gambling operations

  • Drug-related offenses

• The investigation is still ongoing, with more charges possible.

📢 Law Enforcement Statement

“Illegal game rooms will not be tolerated. These establishments pose a threat to public safety.”
— Marshall Police Department

They stressed their commitment to:

• Protecting communities from the criminal elements often tied to illegal gambling

• Holding business operators accountable under Texas law

⚠️ Context & Implications

• Illegal gambling venues are often linked to money laundering, drug activity, and organized crime.

• These raids send a clear warning to businesses attempting to run unauthorized game rooms.

• Law enforcement emphasized that this is part of an ongoing strategy, not a one-time effort.