Update: New Jersey Online Caf` Busts Stats Released

Raids of Connections Cafes see a lot of seized cash

After an undercover operation and a raid of two Connections internet cafes in New Jersey on July 19, official results of the case were released by the Morris County Prosecutor&s Office this week.

According to Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, the action resulted in three arrests, and the seizure of more than $60,000 in cash, electronic equipment worth over $100,000, and other items valuable to the operation of the illegal gambling businesses.

Bianchi also stated that the arrested men are Jeffrey T. Spencer (23), who was charged with third degree promoting/operating a gambling facility and promoting gambling by conduct that materially aids gambling activity, as well as maintaining a gambling resort and conspiracy to maintain a gambling resort, both in the fourth degree; Chester Ward (39), charged with two counts of promoting/operating a gambling facility, two counts of promoting gambling by conduct that materially aids gambling activity, maintaining a gambling resort and conspiracy to maintain a gambling resort; and Gary Roach (55), who was charged with promoting/operating a gambling facility and promoting gambling by conduct that materially aids gambling activity, maintaining a gambling resort and conspiracy to maintain a gambling resort.

Spencer was released on summons with a pending court appearance, while Ward and Roach are being held at the County&s Correctional Facility due to the lack of $50,000 and $40,000 bail, respectively.

The fourth man in the illegal gambling business combination remains at liberty.