Pinellas deputies shut down Internet sweepstakes cafes in Palm Harbor, Largo

PALM HARBOR — Pinellas sheriff's deputies armed with warrants shut down three Internet sweepstakes cafes Thursday, confiscating cash and close to 200 computers, officials said.

The investigations by the narcotics division began after neighbors complained about online gambling at Reel Fun, 36157 U.S. 19 N; Palm Harbor Internet Cafe, 38541 U.S. 19 N; and Southern Play Arcade, 10623 117th Drive N in unincorporated Largo, officials said.

Detectives arrived at the cafes before noon Thursday, gathering a total of 198 computers and about $20,000 in cash. They made no arrests, but said they were still investigating. Last year, the sheriff's office sent letters to the businesses advising them to shut down in 30 days or face investigations.