NCJ Number
143856
Date Published
1969
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Few investigative operations present more challenges to the law enforcement officer than those involving professional, illegal gambling.
Abstract
Most gambling investigations begin without a complainant because bettors consider themselves part of a gambling "fraternity" rather than victims of a scheme. Furthermore, in many States, the bettor himself has violated laws by placing bets. The gangsters who control gambling operations often combine vast wealth and power to secure electronic devices and promote the graft and corruption needed to thwart police efforts. Law enforcement campaigns against gambling may be hindered by public opinion which often supports gambling, but the relationship between organized crime and illegal gambling necessitates a full-blown effort against it. During FBI gambling investigations, emphasis is placed on cooperation with drug law enforcement units and with other Federal, State, and local agencies. Most investigations are based on basic, flexible techniques, imagination and ingenuity, and alertness and observation. While many gambling operators will attempt to destroy records through burning or flushing them down a toilet, the FBI laboratory can often reconstruct the evidence for admission to the court. Police officers should also be alert to recover marked money, casino equipment, and other paraphernalia.