Man Sentenced for Running Gambling Operation

This week a Pennsylvania man was given 18 months of probation and a six month suspended sentence after he pleaded guilty to running an illegal gambling operation.

Daynard Devere Johnson, 38, of Greencastle was sentenced by Washington County Circuit Judge Brett Wilson handed down the sentence, keeping Johnson out of jail should he comply with the terms set forth by the court. He pleaded guilty to running an illegal dice game ring for about a month, with up to 50 people coming to the events. Police also allege that illegal drugs were being distributed at the games. The games got to the point where thousands of dollars were being wagered nightly, and there was even a doorman working the scene.

Police conducted a search warrant on the premises, and found 30 people in attendance. In addition to the dice game, marijuana, cocaine, and large amounts of cash were also discovered. One man was charged but charges were later dismissed. Three other individuals had their cases settled in lower courts. One man is still waiting to be seen by the court, and a bench warrant was issued when he was a no-show.

No comment from prosecutors of the defendant were available as of press time.