Gwinnett police raid ‘bookie style’ gambling operation; 4 arrested

(Credit: Gwinnett County Police Department)

(Credit: Gwinnett County Police Department)

Four people were arrested and more than $244,000 in cash seized after Gwinnett County police raided a “bookie style” gambling operation Thursday, an official said.

Officers served warrants at the H&S Gift Shop on Old Norcross Road in Lawrenceville and the owner’s home, Gwinnett police Cpl. Deon Washington said.

Vanhdy Soukthivong, 59, Somphone Somphonephackdy, 61, Fongsamuth Siharath, 38, and Hai Somphonephackdy, 41, were arrested, Washington said.

They were charged with six felonies for commercial gambling violations, three misdemeanors for counterfeit trademark violations, and an alcohol license violation at the business, Washington said.

Police also seized four vehicles and “numerous” counterfeit items, Washington said.

The investigation began after police received complaints about illegal gambling at the gift shop, Washington said.

“Detectives are still working to determine the magnitude of the gambling operation,” Washington said.

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