Shop owner arrested during undercover investigation into gambling offences

On the morning of Friday, 6/28/24, agents from the 28th District of Bells were assisted by Crockett County Sheriff’s Department – ​​Tennessee executed a search warrant at The Country Store, also known as E & T Gas, in Gadsden. The investigation was conducted based on complaints received.

📸: West Tennessee Drug Task Force

Agents conducted an undercover investigation of the vending machines in the store, which resulted in the issuance of the search warrant. During the investigation and search warrant, agents discovered that the store owner was paying out winnings in the form of merchandise and then exchanging the cashout slips for cash with another individual. The manager/owner lied to the agents and attempted to hide the keys to the vending machines.

Agents seized $4,208.00, as well as two gaming machines, ledgers and payout slips. One man was arrested and charged with promoting gambling, promoting gambling under aggravated conditions, possession of a gambling device or recording, and resisting or obstructing a judicial proceeding.

This case is being pursued by The Office of the Attorney General of the 28th Judicial DistrictFrederick Agee.

WBBJ NOTE: Records available online identify the suspect as 40-year-old Nimit Patel, who is currently in custody at the Crockett County Jail.

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