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The Lodge Card Club, an Austin, Texas area poker club located in Round Rock, has finally issued a statement regarding last week's shocking raid.
Though the card room, co-owned by poker pro Doug Polk, did issue a brief statement immediately following last Tuesday's action by The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), Sunday's statement is the most thorough to date.
The TABC has since revealed that the probe involves money laundering allegations.
Here is the official statement:
"We know our loyal staff, members, and followers have been anxiously waiting for an update regarding the recent events that led to the closure of the club. We recognize that the closure has had a serious impact for many. More than 200 staff members rely on The Lodge for their livelihoods, and many of our members have funds tied up in chips or pending tournament payouts. We understand the concern and frustration and we want everyone to know that it is not being taken lightly.
"As much as we would like to provide a detailed update, we are unable to do so at this time because, despite our legal team’s best efforts to obtain additional information from the authorities, very little information has been made available.
"What we do know is that no charges have been filed, and we remain committed to cooperating fully so that any concerns can be addressed. At the same time, we can confirm that all of the club’s assets and bank accounts have been frozen. In addition, we have been told not to re-open until the investigation concludes.
"The Lodge has always taken its obligation to operate lawfully very seriously. The leadership team is committed to ensuring that The Lodge operates transparently, responsibly, and in good faith within Texas law by emphasizing strengthened oversight and continued improvement of operations.
"Unfortunately, we do not know how long this process will take or when we will be allowed to operate again. We obviously believe that the longer our doors remain closed, the greater the impact becomes — not just on the business itself, but on the hundreds of staff members, vendors, partners, and community members who rely on The Lodge every day.
"Your continued support of The Lodge — its traditions, its staff, and the community that exists inside these walls — means the world to us. We are upset and frustrated by the disruption this has caused and remain hopeful that we will be able to work constructively and with the authorities in a very timely manner so that we can move forward and reopen our doors. All we can do at the moment is to promise to share more information as soon as we are able.
"In the meantime, if The Lodge has meant something to you — as a place to play, work, or build friendships — we encourage you to share your support in the comments. Hearing from this community means more to our staff and leadership team than we can put into words."
Ace King, Gambling911.com
