Illinois Business Rethink Gambling Machines After Recent Thefts

The latest crime spree in Illinois has some owners considering not having gambling machines in their businesses anymore.

Will Some Illinois Businesses Get Rid Of Gambling Machines Because Of Crime?

In the state of Illinois, some places are allowed to have gambling machines in their building. For many, it helps them generate revenue for their business. Those machines can be big money makers without much effort from the owners. The gaming companies do all the legwork and just write a check to the business. I understand why they do it because it's easy money. Unfortunately, there is a crime problem that might scare some owners away.

READ MORE: Burglars Hit Illinois Card Shop For Over $100,000 In Collectibles

According to Fox 32 Chicago...

"It’s just crazy that this is where we’re at. People enjoy the gaming, but now it’s gotten to the point where businesses are scared to even have it," said Scott Arnold, events manager for the Lyric Theater.

 

The gaming machine robberies are also in the smash-and-grab category. If you're not familiar, the thieves smash through the front door or window, then quickly steal from the business, and then they're out the door. It's hard to catch the suspects. It costs the owners a lot of money because of the damage. One of their big targets now is the gambling machines. They use sledgehammers to break them open and take the cash. Some businesses are thinking it is not worth having them anymore.

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The latest smash-and-grab gaming machine robbery happened at Janet's Gem Gaming Cafe in the iconic Lyric Theater in Blue Island. It's the same story. The thieves use sledgehammers to break into the business and then attack the machines. They are in and out in just minutes. Now, this classic theater has to deal with the aftermath.