James Lynn Jones, a 69-year-old Abilene man, has pleaded guilty to operating an illegal gambling business in Jones County, Texas. Jones, who owned and operated the Lot-O-Games business on Highway 277, faces up to 5 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.
According to court documents, Jones’ business was a hub for illicit gaming activities, where customers would exchange certificates for cash on Sundays. The investigation, led by U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, revealed that Jones would exchange the certificates for cash, often in the presence of his employees.
During the investigation, agents observed Jones’ employees handing out Playback Certificates to customers, which could be redeemed for cash on Sundays. The agents also witnessed Jones exchanging the certificates for cash, often using a brown paper bag to carry the money.
The investigation uncovered a pattern of illicit activity at Lot-O-Games, where customers would play on gaming terminals during the week and then exchange their points for cash on Sundays. Jones’ business was a significant operation, with over $414,163 in cash seized by law enforcement officers.
Jones has agreed to forfeit the seized property, which includes cash, cashier’s checks, gold coins, vehicles, jewelry, firearms, and gaming equipment. He will also face a non-binding recommendation from the government for an 8-month sentence, which would include 2 months in prison and a term of supervised release with a condition of home detention.
U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Saldaña announced the guilty plea, praising the work of the investigators who brought down Jones’ illicit operation. The case is a reminder of the ongoing fight against organized crime in Texas.
James Lynn Jones is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Sam R. Cummings after a presentence investigation report is completed. The investigation into Jones’ business is ongoing, and it is unclear if any other individuals will be charged in connection with the case.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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