A sweeping law enforcement operation unfolded across Galveston County on Monday (June 1) as investigators moved to break apart what they say was a long-running illegal gambling network centered in La Marque and surrounding communities.

Members of the Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force began serving 21 search warrants at about 9:30 a.m. on June 1. According to the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office, the coordinated action stemmed from an investigation into suspected organized criminal activity and money laundering connected to illegal game rooms.

Galveston authorities target illegal gambling rooms and financial records

Investigators focused on several game room businesses, related properties in Fort Bend County and a number of financial institutions believed to be tied to the operation’s finances.

Seven warrants were carried out at game rooms in and around La Marque. Those locations included Gold Chest, Pig Pen, TJ’s, Rusty’s, Purple Building and Double Diamond, along with the 24/7 game room in Alvin.