State agents are targeting Pasco County veterans’ organizations, looking for illegal gambling devices.
“We’re not a casino. We’re a place for veterans to come,” said Jimmy St. Dennis with the American Legion Post 335 in New Port Richey.
Veterans defended our country, now, veterans at certain VFW and American Legion halls are fighting another battle.
In the past month, agents from the Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco raided vet organizations, seizing gambling machines.
“I have no idea why they’re going to military organizations that are trying to raise money to help the people in the community,” said St. Dennis.
This American Legion post uses money from the machines to pay for kid’s Christmas presents and to help needy families and veterans.
“We’re a non-profit organization. We’re not trying to make a profit. It’s a place for a veteran to come, have a drink, he knows nobody’s gonna bother ’em because we’re all veterans,” said St. Dennis.
Just up the road in Hudson at VFW post 4412, the commander told News Channel 8 cops took 11 machines and $4500, including money in a safe and tip jar, and threatened to send people to prison.
At post 7845 in Port Richey, same M.O. Machines went out the door.
Veterans are crying foul.
“The clubs take care of so many people. So why do you want to condemn what they’re trying to do help people?” asked Lewie Feeman, a member at American Legion Post 335.
This is a sensitive topic. Two veteran halls that had their machines taken would not provide someone to talk to.
8 On Your Side contacted the state agency involved and we are still waiting to get answers.
