URGENT UPDATE: Five individuals were arrested in Fairbanks, Alaska, late Friday night in connection with a significant illegal gambling operation. The Fairbanks Police Department (FPD) conducted an investigation that uncovered a network of unlicensed gambling establishments operating at two separate locations.
Officers raided locations at 510 Old Steese Highway and 1521 Stacia Street, seizing more than $55,000 in gaming equipment and $45,053 in cash. The operation featured numerous “casino-style ‘fish table’ machines” and “Fire Kirin” gambling games, according to FPD officials.
This investigation revealed that both sites were functioning as a coordinated illegal gambling enterprise. The FPD noted that evidence from both locations included matching financial logs and electronic spreadsheets, affirming that they were linked as a single operation.
The arrested individuals include Pilisega Filivaa Jr., David Irae Lefau, and Montgomery Finau Kuresa Jr., all from Fairbanks, along with Marley Etisone Liulama and Richard Taupea Fola from Kent, Washington. Each faces multiple charges, including promoting gambling and possession of gambling devices.
According to the FPD press release, both locations displayed cash-based payouts and maintained electronic and handwritten ledgers that tracked daily wins and losses, further confirming their illegal status.
This crackdown on gambling operations highlights the ongoing issues surrounding unlicensed gaming in Alaska and underscores the law enforcement’s commitment to addressing such activities. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious gambling activities to the authorities.
As this story develops, residents of Fairbanks are advised to stay tuned for more updates on the legal proceedings against these individuals and any potential impact on local businesses.
For now, this operation represents a significant move by the FPD to curb illegal gambling activities in the area.
