All Bets Off for 25 Caught in Illegal Card Game

Police busted up a “card tournament,” taking place in the back of an Oak Lawn business, resulting in the arrests of 25 people. The card players were charged with gambling—betting or wagering on July 11.

The bust took place at 9753 S. Southwest Hwy., after police received a tip of illegal gambling taking place. Upon arrival at the scene, responding officers noted several parked cars in the back of the business and a man named John P. Bitakis walking around the parking lot.

Officers spoke to Bitakis, who told them there was a “card club tournament,” taking place in the back of the business. He said the club, which he called the “Shark Club,” held tournaments about every two days with varying buy-in amounts. Bitakis said the owner of the business, who he called “Danny,” was out of town and had asked Bitakis to oversee the night's tournament, police said.

After speaking with police, Bitakis led the officers inside the rear of the business. Police said there were approximately 25 individuals sitting at four tables, with poker chips and a gambling machine that made change in the room. The individuals playing poker continued to play as the officers entered the room, police said. All of the individuals playing and Bitakis were then arrested and charged, according to the police report. The participants’ cars were towed from the scene.

Bitakis, of Chicago, also was charged with operating a gambling operation, promoting or assisting a gambling operation and gambling equipment or devices.

All 25 participants are scheduled to appear in court in Bridgeview on Wednesday, July 27, at 1:30 p.m.