Detectives Believe Machines Generated more than $10,000 a Month
New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement to assist with investigating the placement of illegal “coin pusher” gambling devices at various convenient stores in Lakewood, N.J.
February 11, 2022
Wallington, N.J.- The New Jersey State Police have arrested Daniel Kohan, 31, and Yuriy Yakubov, 34, both of Brooklyn, N.Y. for allegedly setting up illegal gambling machines at various locations across the state that were believed to be generating more than $10,000 a month.
In October 2021, detectives from the New Jersey State Police Financial Crimes North Unit were contacted by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement to assist with investigating the placement of illegal “coin pusher” gambling devices at various convenient stores in Lakewood, N.J. A “coin pusher” is a boardwalk style game with coins and other prizes in it. It is only approved for certain venues including arcades and boardwalks. When used properly, it will dispense tickets or tokens to the winner.
Through various investigative means, detectives determined that Kohan and Yakubov placed these machines at various locations throughout New Jersey, and Kohan was collecting the proceeds. On February 1, detectives from the New Jersey State Police Financial Crimes North Unit obtained information that Yakubov was in the Bergen County area and arrested him after they observed him servicing a gambling device at a convenience store in Wallington, N.J. A short time later, Kohan turned himself in to troopers at State Police Meadowlands Station and was arrested.
Daniel Kohan and Yuriy Yakubov were charged with possession of a gambling device. Kohan was also charged with money laundering and promoting gambling. They were released pending a future court date.
Anyone with information on illegal “coin pusher” gambling devices may contact the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs at 973-504-6200. Anonymous tips are welcome.
This case is being prosecuted by the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice.
Charges are mere accusations, and the accused are considered innocent until proven guilty.
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