SLCPD Shuts Down Illegal Gambling Operation in Ballpark Neighborhood

Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) recently dismantled an illegal gambling operation spanning two locations in the Ballpark neighborhood. The crackdown, led by an ongoing investigation, has resulted in arrests, asset seizures, and a significant blow to criminal activity in the area.

Arrest and Seizures Highlight Enforcement Efforts

The SLCPD arrested Ryan Delahuerta, 42, the alleged operator of the illegal enterprise. Authorities linked him to two locations: a gambling venue at 1480 South and State Street and a pawn shop named Urban Pawn at 4791 South State Street in Murray.

Law enforcement seized $56,000 in cash, firearms, gambling machines, and drugs across the two sites. Of the total cash, $48,000 was recovered from Urban Pawn, which investigators believe was used to manage and obscure the illicit proceeds of the gambling operation.

SLCPD Chief Mike Brown addressed the importance of this operation, emphasizing the negative impact illegal activities have on the community. “The Ballpark community has been dealing with the negative impacts of this alleged criminal operation for weeks. I hope there is an immediate impact following this search warrant that will help return a sense of community and safety to the Ballpark neighborhood,” he stated.

The illegal gambling venues were not just hubs for illicit activity but also breeding grounds for other crimes. Chief Brown stressed the connection, saying, “Alleged illegal gambling operations like this don’t just violate the law, they create environments where other criminal activity can thrive.”

The Ballpark area has recently experienced a rise in aggravated assaults, robberies, and burglaries, many of which authorities believe are linked to operations like this one.

During the raid on “My Podzzz,” one of the venues allegedly tied to Delahuerta, police detained 28 individuals for questioning. While no charges have been brought against an employee associated with the gambling site, investigations are ongoing.

This enforcement action marks another step in SLCPD’s efforts to enhance public safety and curb criminal activities in vulnerable neighborhoods.