The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) recently announced the sentencing of two individuals involved in operating the Cellular Bank, an illegal Flint storefront casino previously located at 4622 North Saginaw Street.
Sentencing Details
Linos Antonio Kas-Mikha, 52, of Grand Blanc, and Robert Jamerson, 55, of Saginaw, were sentenced by Judge Elizabeth A. Kelly in the 7th Circuit Court in Genesee County. Both individuals pleaded guilty on October 15, 2024, to one count of conducting a gambling operation without a license.
- Kas-Mikha: Sentenced to 12 months of probation and ordered to pay $1,448 in fines, fees, and court costs.
- Jamerson: Received a sentence of 12 months of probation and was granted three days of jail credit.
Their guilty pleas resulted in the dismissal of three additional felony charges each, including two counts of using computers to commit a crime and one count of maintaining a gambling house for profit.
MGCB’s Stance
Henry Williams, the Executive Director of MGCB, emphasized the Board’s commitment to gaming integrity:
> “The Michigan Gaming Control Board is dedicated to upholding the integrity of gaming in our state. The sentencing of these two defendants for their involvement in running an illegal gambling operation at Cellular Bank sends a clear message that unlicensed gambling enterprises will not be tolerated. We also want to extend our sincere thanks to the Attorney General’s office, whose support and collaboration were instrumental in this investigation and prosecution, ensuring a successful outcome.”
Investigation Insights
The investigation began as a collaborative effort between the Michigan Department of Attorney General and the MGCB. In February 2024, felony gambling warrants were issued for both Kas-Mikha and Jamerson after authorities discovered 11 standalone slot machines, similar to those found in commercial casinos, and 13 computers used for slot-style games at the Cellular Bank. The business also provided patrons with cards that included PINs, allowing them to place wagers online from offsite locations, including their homes.
Community Impact
Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley praised the efforts of the MGCB and the Attorney General’s Office:
> “This underscores the importance of protecting our community from unlawful activities that harm our neighborhoods and exploit vulnerable residents. Flint is committed to supporting efforts that uphold the rule of law and safeguard the well-being of our citizens. I commend the Michigan Gaming Control Board and the Attorney General’s Office for their diligent work in ensuring justice is served.”
The sentencing of these individuals sets a precedent that illegal gambling operations will face consequences, reinforcing the integrity of gaming regulations in Michigan.
