Illegal Gambling Ring Found at State Street Cafe: Authorities Take Action

Salt Lake City police have successfully dismantled an illegal gambling operation at My Podzzz, located at 1480 S. State St., following an extensive undercover investigation. The operation, according to police, had become a rising concern for the community, drawing increased criminal activity to the area.

Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown confirmed the arrest of the business owner, 42-year-old Ryan Delahuerta, who was taken into custody as part of the operation. The raid, conducted late Tuesday night, also targeted Urban Pawn in Murray, situated at 4791 S. State St. Police seized a total of $56,000 in cash, along with two firearms, three gambling machines, and a variety of controlled substances, including methamphetamine, fentanyl, and marijuana products.

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According to investigators, illegal gambling profits from My Podzzz were being funneled to the pawn shop in Murray. Chief Brown addressed the community, saying, “The residents and businesses of Ballpark deserve a safe environment. We’ve heard your concerns about rising crime, and this action is just the start.”

Delahuerta now faces multiple charges, including misdemeanor gambling, operating a gambling device, promoting gambling, and possession of illegal gaming devices. Police also revealed that the area surrounding My Podzzz had seen a surge in violent incidents, including assaults, robberies, and even stalking.

“We are committed to ending criminal activity,” Brown added. “We won’t stop until our communities are secure.”

Several local residents expressed their concerns about the business, citing safety issues and the strange influx of traffic around My Podzzz. One worker, who requested anonymity, explained, “We were always worried about safety and property damage.” They also noticed unusual activity around the business. “There was an increase in cars and people hanging out front, some staying late into the night. It looked like they were running some kind of internet café, charging people by the hour.”

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Attempts to get a statement from My Podzzz were unsuccessful, as staff at the location declined to comment.

The worker said they were relieved to see police take action. “When you see the type of people and cars coming around at odd hours, it just doesn’t seem right,” they shared. “It’s good to know this is being addressed, and things will change now.”

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keelee-mccain

Keelee McCain is a junior at Weber High School. This is her second year on staff, this year as Assistant to the Chief. She does have a life (probably) but she can't think of anything to write in here, so she's probably just going to ramble now. She has an orange cat who she likes better than any human. If you see her being quiet or not sitting on top of a desk, there is something very wrong. In her free time she enjoys harassing her favorite teachers and sleeping. Her life plans include making it through high school and leaving. Happy lifeing.

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