23 Arrested in 'Illegal' NCAA Gambling Operation in Alpharetta

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Nearly two dozen people have been arrested in what Alpharetta police say was an “illegal” gambling operation involving the NCAA tournament.

The Alpharetta Department of Public Safety, along with law enforcement personnel from Milton, Johns Creek and Roswell, conducted a joint operation involving “specialized SWAT operators, undercover offices, uniformed officers and detectives,” said agency spokesperson George Gordon.

At around 9 p.m. Monday, March 16, the collaborating agencies and personnel conducted a “surprise raid” at Pepperoni’s Tavern at 4190 Old Milton Parkway.

“Alpharetta authorities had previously gathered intelligence regarding the planned operation of a large, illegal gambling event,” Gordon added.

SEE ALSO: NCAA Basketball Brackets: 45 Georgia Players on 23 Teams in Big Dance

Authorities broke up the alleged operation and detained roughly 65 people. Gordon stated officers did unearth a “large gambling operation in progress, with people betting on the NCAA basketball tournament.” Out of the 65 people who were detained, officers eventually arrested and charged 23 people with illegal gambling.

Others at the scene were interviewed and released pending possible future charges, however. Additionally, a small number of handguns and an undisclosed amount of cash was also confiscated during the raid.

Gordon noted the incident remains under investigation.

Image via Shutterstock

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