Police Shut Down Four Illegal Gambling Operations, Seize Cash and Firearms

Apr 11, 2025

by Scott Pelkey

ASHEBORO — Police have shut down four illegal gambling businesses and charged five people following a month-long operation with state officials into gaming operations offering cash payouts, authorities said.

According to a press release from the Asheboro Police Department, Investigators with the Department, with assistance from the N.C. Alcohol Law Enforcement (NC ALE), executed search warrants at four locations, each suspected of being involved in illegal gaming operations. Those locations included:

Oklahoma Games — 1528 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro
Utopia — 128 N. Park St, Asheboro
Spin City — 1305 S. Cox St., Asheboro
The Room II — 239A White Oak St., Asheboro

Investigators said the businesses were operating illegal gaming machines that issued cash payouts based on gameplay — a violation of state law. Officers seized 314 hard drives, five firearms, four video surveillance systems, and $68,933 in cash according to the press release.

A total of five individuals connected to those businesses have been charged.

Shenna Roxanne Sperry, 31, of Asheboro 
Maxie Bason Odaniel, 80, of Asheboro 
Virginia Odaniel Jackson, 60, of Asheboro 
Gary Dale Matthews, 65, of Asheboro 
Emily Eve Kendrick, 35, of Asheboro

Each faces multiple counts of operating more than five video gaming machines, misdemeanor gambling, possession and manufacture of slot machines, and operating an electronic sweepstakes.

“These illegal operations undermine the safety and well-being of our community,” the department said in a statement. “We will continue to enforce the law and hold accountable those who choose to operate outside of it.”

The investigation is ongoing, and police said additional charges are possible. Anyone with information related to illegal gambling is encouraged to contact Lt. Corey Hatfield at 336-626-1313. 
 

(Article Photo - The Room II on White Oak Street in Asheboro (Scott Pelkey / for the Randolph Hub)