Massive Illegal Gambling Network Shut Down in Florida: Authorities Expose Sophisticated Money-Laundering Scheme

Authorities have dismantled an extensive network of illegal gambling arcades operating across Florida, spanning West Palm Beach, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, and Zephyrhills. Investigators have revealed that the arcades were part of a highly sophisticated money-laundering scheme, with suspects reportedly pocketing hundreds of thousands of dollars in illicit gains.

Years-Long Investigation Leads to Major Bust

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBCSO) began investigating the illegal arcades in 2019 after observing suspicious gambling activities at a West Palm Beach location. By 2022, the case was referred to the department’s Money Laundering Unit for further scrutiny. This led to the identification of Nova Roffey, 41, and her husband, David Roffey, as central figures in the operation.

The Roffeys own JJE Technologies LLC, which operates the Treasure Hunt Arcade at 2885 North Military Trail. Additional establishments implicated in the investigation include:

•VIP Sweepstakes in Fort Pierce

•Pharaoh’s Treasure Arcade in Vero Beach

•Arcadia Arcade

Suspects and Illegal Gambling Operations

Authorities identified five other individuals involved in the scheme:

•Joseph Michael Pestana

•Eric David Silverstein

•Justin Earl Silverstein

•Jana Barvircakova

Undercover surveillance confirmed that these arcades were running illegal video slot machines that paid out cash prizes, directly violating Florida gambling laws. Investigators discovered that patrons used “reload cards,” a system mimicking those in cruise ship casinos. Customers loaded money onto cards, gambled on video slots, and cashed out their winnings in cash—a clear breach of the law.

Florida Gambling Laws and Violations

Florida law strictly prohibits the possession and operation of slot machines offering cash prizes unless they are in licensed facilities, such as tribal casinos or pari-mutuel sites in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Investigators observed that these illegal arcades solely offered cash prizes, making them non-compliant with state regulations.

Money Laundering Scheme Exposed

Beyond illegal gambling, the investigation uncovered a sophisticated money-laundering operation tied to the arcades. Authorities identified three bank accounts connected to two LLCs that were used to funnel illicit profits. These accounts include:

1.JJE Technologies LLC accounts at Wells Fargo and PNC Bank

2.SWFL Center LLC account at Fifth Third Bank

Ongoing Investigation and Legal Implications

Authorities are working to prosecute those involved in the operation. The illegal arcades not only violated state gambling laws but also engaged in financial crimes that have disrupted Florida communities.

This case underscores the commitment of Florida law enforcement to cracking down on illegal gambling and financial misconduct. Additional charges and arrests are expected as investigators continue to uncover the full extent of the network’s operations.