HCSO Busts Illegal Gambling Operation in Rural Edinburg – Eight Arrested
Photo above: Quinta Los Portillos, situated at the 1900 Block of North 83rd Street in rural Edinburg, Texas, is the site of an alleged illegal gambling operation.
Staff Report
Edinburg, TX, January 27, 2024 – Hidalgo County Sheriff deputies investigated an alleged gambling operation that resulted in eight arrests and confiscation of a large number of gambling machines and other equipment.
In a significant crackdown on Friday evening, January 26, 2024, at 7:00 pm, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) investigators executed a search warrant at Quinta Los Portillos, situated at the 1900 Block of North 83rd Street in rural Edinburg, Texas, uncovering an illegal gambling operation.
The executed search revealed a staggering 136 disabled gambling machines and an undetermined amount of U.S. currency within the confines of the illicit establishment. Investigators detained and subsequently arrested eight employees on a range of charges, including Keeping a Gambling Place (47.04, MA), Possession of Gambling Device/Equipment (47.06, MA), Gambling Promotion (47.03, MA), and Engaged in Organized Criminal Activity (71.02, FS).
The individuals apprehended in connection with the illegal gambling operation were identified as Fernando Garcia Garcia (54), Claudia Ayala (53), Sergio Ivan Flores Gonzalez (45), Jose Rogelio Escalera Rodriguez Jr. (23), Alan Rubio (27), Isabel Cristina Martinez (53), Juan De Dios Sanchez (47), and Efrain Aguirre (47).
As authorities continue their thorough investigation, witnesses possessing any information related to the case are strongly encouraged to come forward. The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking cooperation from the community, and anyone with pertinent details is urged to contact them directly at 956-383-8114.
For those wishing to maintain anonymity, the Hidalgo County Crime Stoppers Hotline is available at 956-668-TIPS (8477). Alternatively, individuals can submit an anonymous tip through the smartphone application “P3 TIPS.”
According to a press release from the HCSO, this operation marks another step in combating illegal gambling activities in the region, and “the HCSO remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of the community.”
As the investigation progresses, investigators anticipate more revelations and potential charges against those involved in the illicit enterprise.