2 Parma Heights Bars Busted for Running Illegal Gambling Operations

Two Parma Heights bars were busted on Wednesday, accused of permitting illegal gambling inside their establishments. The raids, which were conducted in the afternoon, involved seven different law enforcement agencies and locations in five different cities.

Undercover agents from the Ohio Investigative Unit removed 80 computers, money, and financial records. Investigators raided Good Time Charlie's II on Pearl Rd. and Mr. B's on West 130th.

Julie Hinds, a spokesperson for the Ohio Investigative Unit, said:

"We did a long-term investigation ourselves and Parma Heights police and we found that the complaint was valid."

Cleveland Agent-in-Charge Greg Croft added:

"We were able to receive cash payouts at both locations. It was determined by our investigation that the machines in these premises were actually, in fact, gambling devices, not internet sweepstakes machines as claimed... there were several different gambling violations that were taking place."

Investigators also raided homes in Brunswick and Parma, as well as the Union Vending company in Cleveland.

Ohio agents received assistance from police in Parma Heights, Parma, Brunswick and Cleveland, as well as the U.S. Secret Service and State Highway Patrol.

Both bars have been permitted to re-open for the time being, but are no longer allowed to offer gambling. Investigators are turning over their findings to the Cuyahoga County prosecutor's office for potential criminal charges. The Liquor Control Commission will then review their permits.