Illegal Slot Machines Seized At Windsor Locks Store; Business Owner Arrested

WINDSOR LOCKS, CT – A newsstand and variety store in Dexter Plaza has had its Lottery Sales Agent license suspended by the Department of Consumer Protection's Gaming Division, after an investigation yielded five illegal slot machines in use at the business.

On Friday, Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli signed a summary suspension of the license for JJ’s News and Variety at 20 Main Street.

Investigators received a consumer complaint on July 14 regarding the presence of slot machines at the store. Electronic gaming (slot) machines are only allowed at Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun casinos. All machines found outside of those facilities are illegal, according to the DCP.

The business owner, Rais Bhura, was arrested by DCP Gaming Division agents, and charged with illegal gambling and five counts of illegal possession of gambling devices. He was released on a written promise to appear, and is due in Hartford Superior Court July 29.

JJ’s News and Variety Lottery Sales Agent license is suspended, effective immediately, and no lottery sales may be conducted until further written notice, according to the DCP.

"It is critical that consumers do not use illegal slot machines if they encounter them in their community," Cafferelli said in a written statement. "Illegal slot machines put your money and information at risk, have no age-based restrictions, and offer significantly worse odds than regulated physical slot machines and legal iGaming platforms. Thank you to our Gaming Division, who acted quickly upon receiving a consumer complaint, and to the members of the public who assist us in protecting public safety by reporting illegal activity."