Local

Palm Bay arcade shuts down, owner arrested on racketeering charges

PALM BAY, Fla. — The owner of a popular arcade in Palm Bay has been arrested on racketeering charges.

Patrons arrived at the Monte Carlo Arcade Friday afternoon to find it was closed for business.

“You know, we don’t go in and spend a lot of money. We go in and for $10 a piece we’ll spend the afternoon,” said patron Ted Stiehl.

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Police said they considered that they found inside the arcade to be a gambling establishment.

The owner, Giuseppe Puglisi, was arrested on charges of racketeering, operation of a place of gaming, and possession of a slot machine or device.

Patrons were surprised and disappointed.

“That’s what you get paid here, is a gift card. No cash. Some days you give them 10, you get five free,” said Charlene Kerns.

According to court records, for $20, an undercover officer filled out a form and got a player’s cars with a chip that allowed players to bet credits.

After an hour on the machine, the officer had a $29 credit and received a $25 Walmart gift card, and $4 was left on the player’s cars.

Police determined it met the definition of a slot machine.

“I don’t think this is gambling. It’s entertainment,” Stiehl said.