Gaming location raided, closed
By John Joyce
Published in News on May 8, 2014 1:46 PM
The U.S. Attorney General's office is declining to confirm or deny whether federal agents shut down 111 Sweepstakes, a local Internet gaming establishment located at 211 N.C. 111 S., Wednesday.
The agency would only say it could not comment on an ongoing investigation.
Julie Tillett, part owner of 111 Sweepstakes, confirmed the business was forced to close by federal agents who seized games, computers, records and money.
Ms. Tillett, who was not charged, said her establishment was targeted as part of the widely reported statewide crackdown on businesses as part of an investigation conducted by the N.C. Alcohol Law Enforcement and Federal Bureau of Investigation into Godwin Music, RGB, Inc., of Selma.
The sweepstakes building stood empty Wednesday, with as many as three handwritten signs in purple marker saying the business is "closed until further notice."
Chairs and empty computer desks were visible through the window.
The lights were left on.
A fountain continued to spout water.
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office also confirmed ALE called to inform local law enforcement there would be an operation conducted in the N.C. 111 South area.
The sheriff's office offered to assist but its assistance was declined.