Police Bust Alleged Illegal Gambling Operation In Beaver Co.

State police told Channel 11 News they busted an illegal gambling operation in Monaca, Beaver County, Monday afternoon.

Officials said they seized more than a dozen machines from “The Bank,” a run-down house on Pennsylvania Avenue.

“We received many tips that something illegal was going on,” said Sgt. Eric Hermick.

Police said Terri Howe ran the operation and said she advertised on the street for business.

In operation since 2001, “The Bank” netted hundreds of thousand of dollars per week, police said.

Howe claimed she didn’t know that she was doing anything wrong, but police said that’s not good enough.

“Ignorance of the law is not an excuse,” Hermick said.

Neighbors said there was activity at the house at all hours of the day and night.

“People were coming and going. I’m glad the police came and shut it down,” Bruce Williams said.

Police said they plan to file charges against Howe and her employees this week.

Investigators said they believe "The Bank" had more than 500 clients.