South Carolina ex-cop busted for long-time role in illegal gambling ops – CalvinAyre.com

He had a good thing going, but got greedy. Now, a former police officer in South Carolina will not only lose any chance at retirement benefits, but he will also possibly spend time behind bars. Instead of serving and protecting the community, Florence County Sheriffs Lieutenant Mark Edward Fuleihan was serving and protecting an illegal gambling ring for about five years, giving its leaders information and services in exchange for bribes. If the courts decide to throw the book at him, the 48-year-old is looking at up to ten years in jail, a fine of $10,000 and no chance at ever holding a public service job.

It was apparently during the investigation that the cops involvement was uncovered. Once that happened, he was fired by the countys Interim Sheriff, William Barnes, and, last Thursday, he was arrested by South Carolinas State Law Enforcement Division and agents from the Department of Homeland Security. His expulsion from the force and subsequent arrest followed an investigation into his involvement that started in April 2017.

Fuleihan was reportedly able to be identified easily because he wasnt smart enough to cover his tracks. He used his cell phone to communicate with those in the gambling ring, and even rookie police officers, and most 12-year-olds, know that burner phones are better for hiding illegal activity. The disgraced cop is now looking at charges of violating the states Ethics Act, as well as bribery and illegal gambling.

South Carolinas gambling laws are pretty basic and straightforward dont do it. The only exception is the state lottery, but this could change in the near future. There is now increased attention being given to casinos, as well as sports gambling, in the state; however, there is still a long way to go before any legalization will occur. As is the case in several southern states, there is overwhelming opposition to gambling, as it is seen as an evil activity that can only lead to drugs and crime, despite any evidence linking the two.

Follow this link:

South Carolina ex-cop busted for long-time role in illegal gambling ops - CalvinAyre.com