Illegal Gambling Business Busted In Benicia: Police

BENICIA, CA – After a four-month investigation, law enforcement this week arrested three Contra Costa County individuals on numerous charges and shut down an illegal gambling business in Benicia, seizing guns, drugs and cash in the process, according to authorities.

Along with the California Department of Justice Bureau of Gambling Control, the Benicia Police Department on Thursday served arrest and search warrants at the Albiz business on the 2000 block of Columbus Parkway and a residence on Birdsong Lane in El Sobrante, Benicia police said.

"Albiz was actively running an illegal gambling establishment utilizing computers that ran slot machine-style games," the agency said.

Officers seized weapons, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, scales, illegal gambling equipment and cash, police said.

Arrested were Michael Phillips, 21, of El Sobrante, on suspicion of bookmaking, illegal gambling device, conspiracy and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition; Cynthia Powell, 57, of El Sobrante, on suspicion of bookmaking, illegal gambling device, conspiracy, possession of controlled substance for sale and drug paraphernalia and other offenses; Kenneth Nielsen, 64, of El Sobrante, for allegedly being a felon in possession of a gun and being felon in possession of ammunition, police said.

"The Benicia Police Department is proud of this investigation and partnership between the two agencies, and is grateful for the California Department of Justice’s assistance in the case," the department said. "We take the safety of our community very seriously, and we are glad to be able to arrest those who target and victimize our community members. This is an active case and investigation is ongoing."

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--Images via Benicia PD