Convenience store manager arrested for multiple gambling machines in his store
Apr 12, 2022, 12:59 PM
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND- OCTOBER 19: Slot machines are seen in an amusement arcade following the announcement of the newly proposed gambling bill which will effect casinos and amusement arcades across the UK, October 19, 2004 in Glasgow, Scotland. The new law if approved by the government will allow casinos with over 1,250 slot machines unlimted jackpots, currently Britain has 126 casinos with slot machine winnings being limited to GBP2,000. (Photo by Christopher Furlong /Getty Images) *** Local Caption ***
(Photo by Christopher Furlong /Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY— A Salt Lake City store manager was arrested after being found with multiple gambling machines in his store.
The store, Pennywise convenience store, at 1245 S. 900 West was found with 20 gaming consoles run by the owner, 54-year-old Ranjit Kahler, of West Valley City.
According to court documents, “There were 20 gaming consoles, with four devices attached together and affixed to a single tabletop screen at five different stations throughout the store. The
machines are labeled as “amusement devices”, but in fact are gaming machines in which the player inserts money and attempts to win a cash prize greater than his investments. Winnings are
paid out in cash by the store clerks, and do not include a toy, novelty, or non-monetary prize.”
The investigation began last November and ended in March when police confirmed suspicions that the machines were used for monetary gain.
It is unclear how long Kahler has been the manager, but Kahler was charged on Monday with five counts of having a fringe gaming device including four third-degree felonies.
Under a search warrant, the state demanded the forfeiture of the property including the gambling machines along with over $27,000 of cash.
