FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Advisory

During the past several months, the San José Police Department has investigated multiple shootings and homicides linked to illegal after hours clubs, bars, and illicit gambling establishments operating throughout the city. In March 2026, a double homicide occurred inside an illegal clandestine gambling establishment along Santa Clara Street, further highlighting the dangers associated with these operations.

Illegal gambling establishments often attract violence, fraud, and organized criminal activity, posing a significant threat to public safety and the surrounding community.

In response, multiple units within the Department’s Special Operations Division, along with the Vice Unit, spearheaded a citywide enforcement effort aimed at identifying and dismantling these illegal operations.

As part of this ongoing effort, on April 28, 2026, SJPD conducted a coordinated operation, simultaneously serving four search warrants at the following locations:

• Commercial building in the 1800 block of Alum Rock Avenue
• Residence in the 4300 block of Alum Rock Avenue
• Commercial building in the 3800 block of Monterey Road
• Residence in the 200 block of Senter Road

During the operation, Detectives arrested 13 individuals for various on view charges and outstanding warrants. The investigation resulted in the seizure of evidence associated with illegal underground gambling operations, including 45 operational gaming machines, narcotics, and over $3,000 in cash believed to be proceeds of the unlawful activity.

This investigation underscores the Department’s ongoing commitment to addressing violent crime and holding individuals accountable for operating illegal establishments that endanger our community.

“Illegal gambling operations are not victimless crimes. They create environments where violence thrives and put innocent lives at risk,” said Chief Paul Joseph. “This operation reflects our commitment to aggressively pursue those who operate outside the law and threaten the safety of our neighborhoods.”

“Illegal gambling fuels violence, puts residents at risk, and has no place in San José,” said Mayor Matt Mahan. “Thanks to the hard work of our Special Operations and Vice units shutting these illegal operations down, we’re sending a clear message: we will not tolerate criminal enterprise of any kind in San José.”

“These illegal operations undermine neighborhood safety, fuel violence, and erode trust in our community,” said City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “We are aligning City resources across departments to identify, disrupt, and shut down these establishments. This work will continue, and operators should expect sustained enforcement and accountability by the SJPD.”

SJPD extends its appreciation to all the units and personnel who contributed to the success of this operation including city of San José Code Enforcement. SJPD reminds the public that homeowners and building owners can face administrative fines of up to $500,000 through Code Enforcement for allowing or facilitating these illicit businesses.

Anyone with information about illegal gambling operations or related criminal activity is encouraged to contact the San José Police Department by visiting SJPD.org

Submit crime tips and remain anonymous by using the P3TIPS mobile app, calling the tip line at (408) 947-STOP, or on the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers website. If the information you submit leads to an arrest, you are eligible for a cash reward from the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers Program.