(PUEBLO, Colo.) — The Pueblo Police Department (PPD) reported on Monday, July 15 it executed search warrants on local businesses involved in illegal gambling within the City of Pueblo.

According to PPD, they had recently noticed a decrease in crime and an increase in crime due to several illegal gambling establishments in the city.

On Monday, July 15, the Pueblo Police Department’s Special Investigation Division executed five search warrants on local businesses involved in illegal gambling within the City of Pueblo located at 320 West Northern Avenue, 1103 North Elizabeth Street, 1722 South Prairie Avenue, and 303 East Northern Avenue.

These charges were brought after an ordinance making the operation of these machines illegal was passed by the Council. PPD brought these issues to the attention of Mayor Heather Graham, who signed it into law making the operation of these establishments illegal in May 2024. Those who violate the law could be charged in Municipal court.

Overall, 11 people were cited under the new city ordinance for engaging in gambling, possession of a gambling device, gambling premise, and electronic gambling. Approximately $20,000 were seized as evidence along with 62 gambling machines.

Many machines seized replicated those commonly used in towns where gambling is legalized in Colorado, which are Cripple Creek, Black Hawk, and Central City.