Suffolk County Police arrested the owner of a Patchogue business for possessing what they believe are illegal gambling machines on the premises, among other violations.
In response to many complaints from neighbors, Fifth Precinct Crime Section officers, along with Community Support Unit, Anti-Crime, NYS State Liquor Authority, and Patchogue Village Code Enforcement investigated Taqueria Hidalgo, aka 123 Food Market, located at 123 Route 112.
The business was found not to comply with multiple penal and state liquor laws.
Three electronic gambling machines and flavored tobacco products listed for sale were confiscated. The New York State Liquor Authority and Patchogue Village code enforcement issued multiple citations for violations.
The owner/manager of the business, Ghulam Choudhry, 56, of 1652 Manatuck Blvd., Bay Shore, was arrested and charged with Promoting Gambling 2nd Degree, Possession of Gambling Devices, On Premises Gambling Violation, Criminal Nuisance 2nd Degree, and Violation of Beer Consumption Off Premise.
Choudhry was issued a Desk Appearance Ticket and is scheduled to appear at First District Court in Central Islip at a later date.