Business & Tech
Feds Raid Artichoke Joe's
Multi-agency probe of Bay Area gambling operations shutters clubs in San Bruno, Emeryville.
Federal agents raided Artichoke Joe’s card club this morning, the result of a racketeering investigation by five law enforcement agencies.
The probe by the FBI, IRS, federal Drug Enforcement Agency, the California Department of Justice and local police targeted several Bay Area card clubs, but closed in on only Artichoke Joe’s and the Oaks Card Club in Emeryville.
A swarm of state, federal and local officers swept both clubs at about 6 a.m.
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A spokesman for the U.S. Attorney in San Francisco confirmed a law enforcement action had taken place but refused further comment as the search warrants and indictments remain sealed.
The 105-year-old Artichoke Joe’s at 659 Huntington Ave. has been a reliable tax engine for the city. In addition, the venerable card club has donated money to schools and nonprofit organizations, and proffered aid for victims of the Sept. 9 blast.
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The Oaks Card Club at 4097 San Pablo Ave. opened its doors in 1896, before the city incorporated.
