SALT LAKE CITY, UT — A major illegal gambling operation in the Ballpark neighborhood of Salt Lake City has been shut down following a police raid that resulted in the seizure of $56,000 in cash, several firearms, gambling machines, and narcotics.
The operation, allegedly run by 42-year-old Ryan Delahuerta, came to an end after Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) executed two search warrants on businesses owned by Delahuerta. One of the locations, a business called “My Podzzz,” located at 1480 South and State Street, was found to be involved in illegal gambling activities. The second location, a pawn shop named “Urban Pawn,” situated at 4791 South State Street in Murray, was linked to the operation through the alleged funneling of gambling proceeds.
During the raids, police confiscated nearly $8,000 in cash, two handguns, three gambling machines, and illegal drugs including fentanyl pills, methamphetamine, and marijuana from My Podzzz. Authorities also seized an additional $48,000 from Urban Pawn. Delahuerta was arrested and booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail on charges related to illegal gambling, while a 38-year-old employee of My Podzzz was detained. However, no charges have been filed against the employee at this time. Police also detained 28 individuals inside the store, though most were released after questioning.
Chief Mike Brown of the SLCPD spoke about the significant impact the illegal operation had on the Ballpark community. “The Ballpark neighborhood has been dealing with the negative consequences of this alleged criminal operation for weeks,” Brown stated. “This action will help return a sense of safety and security to the area.”
The Ballpark neighborhood, already struggling with a rise in crime, including aggravated assaults, robberies, and burglaries, had been under increased scrutiny by police. According to SLCPD, the illegal gambling operation served as a hub for further criminal activity. “Illegal gambling operations like this don’t just break the law; they create an environment where other criminal behaviors can thrive,” Chief Brown added.
The investigation, which involved the SLCPD’s Special Investigations Unit, SWAT officers, and patrol officers, is expected to have a lasting impact on reducing crime in the area. Authorities have emphasized that this bust serves as a clear warning to those who believe they can hide illegal activities under the guise of legitimate businesses.
The police department continues to investigate the operation and its connections to other criminal activities in the region.