More than a dozen residents of Storm Lake are facing charges in connection with a suspected illegal gambling operation. This week’s arrests follow the search of a Storm Lake home in June, when officers searched a home and seized gambling records, items used for gambling, a safe, over $10,000 cash and methamphetamine packaged for sale.
This week, the homeowner – 48-year-old Vinalanh Latsasombath – was charged with ongoing criminal conduct and illegal gaming and betting for allegedly running the operation. Thirty-nine-year-old Vilayphone Sibounma was charged with possession of meth with intent to deliver and misdemeanor illegal gambling. Another homeowner, 52-year-old Khonsavahn Southiphong, was arrested for allegedly keeping a gambling house. Ten other Storm Lake residents are charged with illegal gambling. The investigation is continuing.