Akron police carried out a raid on an alleged illegal gambling operation following community complaints and their surveillance, resulting in arrests and seizures of cash, equipment, and a stolen firearm. The crackdown occurred at a venue on the 2200 block of East Avenue, as WKYC reports.

According to a press release from the Akron Police Department, the investigation into the gambling operation concluded with the enforcement action on Wednesday around 5 p.m., Witnessing the refusal to cooperate by people present in the establishment. Officers were compelled to force entry. The search resulted in the detention of multiple individuals and the seizure of illicit paraphernalia. FOX8's coverage indicated the items confiscated by police included over a dozen electronic gambling machines, approximately $11,000 in cash, several televisions, multiple cell phones, and a loaded handgun that had been reported stolen.

The enforcement action saw the arrest of three men, whose ages ranged between 32 and 58. They were charged with illegal gambling offenses, with one of the trio facing an additional charge for allegedly operating the gambling house. In subsequent reports, Cleveland19 noted that while the 58-year-old suspect was released with a summons, the other two individuals were booked into the Summit County Jail.

"Illegal gambling has continued to create nuisances and other concerns throughout the city," as per Cleveland19 News. Akron police mentioned, signaling an ongoing battle with such establishments. After the bust, police emphasized the importance of community involvement, highlighting that resident complaints played a critical role in sparking the investigation. The raid visibly demonstrated that the police are actively responding to concerns signaled by Akron's neighborhoods, aligning with their responsibility to address crime and maintain public order.