Father and Son Sentenced for Operating Illegal Gambling Businesses in Genesee County
GENESEE COUNTY, Mich. (WJRT) – A father and son duo from Genesee County have been sentenced to probation and fined after being caught operating illegal gambling businesses in the area.
Shaun Bellah Sr., 44, of Davison, and Shaun Bellah II, 24, of Highland, were sentenced after pleading guilty to charges related to maintaining a gambling house. Bellah Sr. received 24 months of probation and a fine of $130, while Bellah II was given 12 months of probation with the same fine.
The Bellahs were involved in running two illegal gambling operations, one at The State Road Spot in Davison and the other at The Bristol Spot in Burton. These locations were found to be operating as storefront casinos, which are illegal under Michigan law.
In April 2022, the Michigan Gambling Control Board carried out a raid at both locations, where they confiscated 100 gambling devices, $29,000 in cash, and 62 gift cards.
“This case highlights our commitment to ensuring the integrity of Michigan’s gaming industry,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
Both men reached an agreement with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office to plead guilty to one misdemeanor count each of maintaining a gambling house for gain. Additionally, Bellah Sr. pleaded guilty to a felony charge related to the operation.
The case underscores Michigan’s efforts to crack down on illegal gambling activities across the state.
