Attorney General Bailey Files Suit to Shut Down Illegal Casino in Dunklin County

Attorney General Bailey Files Suit to Shut Down Illegal Casino in Dunklin County

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - Today, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed suit against T.J. Entertainment, an illegal casino operating in Dunklin County, for acting as a public nuisance to Missourians. The suit comes after his office received investigative referrals from local law enforcement surrounding the facility. Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas Jain filed criminal charges against the operator of the casino today.

"As Attorney General, I will always use every legal tool at my disposal to protect Missourians," said Attorney General Bailey. "Illegal casinos that have been overrun with crime serve as nothing but a harm to the public. I am moving to shut this location down permanently before it can wreak any more havoc on the local community."

In the lawsuit, General Bailey asserts, "T.J. Entertainment is an illegal gaming house that has continually subjected the public to numerous harms. In recent months, this illegal casino, which is surrounded by businesses, has been the site of two separate armed robberies, several weapons crimes and an assault. At least some of these crimes were committed by armed offenders with histories of criminal activity. In all instances, the armed criminals fled the scene of their crimes placing the public at additional risk of harm. T.J. Entertainment's sole function is to provide devices and a location for unlawful gambling activity."

Under state law, General Bailey is tasked with the authority to enforce public nuisance law, which states that any entity that disrupts the general public's right to safety and peace is unlawful and can be shut down. To that end, General Bailey filed a motion for preliminary injunction, asking the Court to close the casino during the duration of the litigation. He is also seeking civil penalties.

"I appreciate the local law enforcement who have worked with my office on this issue," concluded Attorney General Bailey. "Together, we are moving in the right direction for all Missourians in the area as we take action to keep our communities safe."

The lawsuit can be read here.

The motion for preliminary injunction can be read here.