September 26, 2018
Detroit, Sept. 26, 2018 - An Ingham County Circuit Court jury on Sept. 21 convicted a 46-year-old Muskegon man of conducting an unlicensed and illegal gambling operation in Muskegon two years ago. The felony charge was filed in 2016 following a joint investigation by the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, Muskegon County Sheriff’s Department and Michigan Gaming Control Board.
James Scott Postema, 46, could face a 10-year prison sentence and/or a maximum $100,000 fine on the felony charge of conducting an unlicensed gambling operation with wagering at Triple Cherries Internet Café, 1930 Apple Ave., Muskegon.
“Illegal gambling operations are a burden on local communities,” said Richard Kalm, executive director, Michigan Gaming Control Board. “They do not operate with the tight controls a licensed casino uses to ensure fair gaming. We work closely with the Attorney General’s office and local authorities to identify and shut down unlicensed operations to protect citizens from being victimized.”
Postema also was convicted on a second felony count of using computers to commit a crime, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 to 20 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. He also is barred from obtaining a license under the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act.
In August 2016, authorities obtained search warrants against Postema and his business, which culminated in a raid of the Apple Avenue location and his home. Law enforcement officers seized currency, bank and credit union accounts, money orders and computer equipment associated with the illegal business.
Postema will face sentencing at 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 7 by Judge Rosemarie E. Aquilina in Ingham County Circuit Court.
"The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure the conduct of fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of the citizens of the State of Michigan."
