DOJ indicts 8 people on illegal gambling business

April 25, 2026 - 08:58

A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against eight individuals, charging them with operating an illegal gambling business in a case that has cast a spotlight on a long-troubled charity casino in Fort Wayne. The charges stem from an ongoing investigation into the Elks Lodge 155, located on St. Joe Center Road, which has faced regulatory scrutiny and community concern for years.

According to court documents, the defendants are accused of running a high-stakes gambling operation that allegedly violated both state and federal laws. The indictment alleges that the scheme involved the use of electronic gambling machines and other gaming activities that were not properly authorized under Indiana’s charitable gaming laws. Authorities say the operation generated substantial illegal proceeds, though the exact amounts have not been disclosed in the initial filing.

The Elks Lodge 155 has been a focal point of controversy for some time, with previous reports of financial irregularities and questions about the legitimacy of its charity gaming permits. The new federal charges represent a significant escalation in the legal battle surrounding the venue. Each defendant faces potential prison time and fines if convicted on the illegal gambling business counts.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized that the investigation remains active and that additional charges could be forthcoming. The case is being prosecuted by the Organized Crime and Gang Section, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations. The defendants are expected to appear in federal court in the coming weeks to face the charges.