A poker site that calls itself “the premiere private poker club within the Phoenix area” was raided by the state Department of Gaming and town police on Thursday.

According to a report from azcentral.com, police arrested five people after arriving on the establishment with search warrants. Authorities reportedly investigated the poker club for a year. Police said that those arrested are taking a look at charges for operating an illegal gaming facility, racketeering and promotion of illegal gambling.

Poker Union said on its website that it’s a members-only venue that “strives to advertise the thrill and entertainment of poker in a social gaming environment.” The club had a day $2-$5 no-limit hold’em game. It held weekly freerolls, high hand bonuses, and likewise sent players to the yearly World Series of Poker in Las Vegas.

“We will champion the reason for the Poker Players Alliance that poker is a sport; a game of skill greater than mere chance or dumb luck, and never gambling within the same vein as other casino games where the home has an active stake and decidedly advantageous odds,” the web site said. “Poker was played in Arizona long before casinos took over the sport and claimed it as their very own. It's time we take back what has always been ours and reclaim a game enjoyed around the globe by women and men of each age, race and creed.”

The Phoenix area is home to 8 poker rooms at tribal casinos. There are greater than 100 poker tables between the casinos. Commercial casinos aren’t allowed within the state.

Read More... [Source: CardPlayer Poker News]