Media release from the Floyd County, GA Police Department:
The Floyd County Police Department recently conducted a compliance inspection of coin-operated amusement machines, commonly known as “ding-dings,” at several retail establishments throughout Floyd County. The inspection uncovered a substantial number of violations, prompting serious concerns about the machines’ impact on the well-being of local communities.
The compliance operation, led by the Floyd County Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division, found that many businesses were not adhering to the laws that govern COAM machines. Some violations included: operating machines without proper licensing, offering illegal cash payouts, and concealing COAMs in backrooms. Of the 50 stores with operational COAMs that were inspected, 43 were issued ordinance citations totaling more than 75 various violations. Criminal charges are pending on those individuals who were responsible for cash payouts.
“Some of these violations represent more than just rule-breaking—they represent a breakdown in the trust between businesses and the communities they serve,” said Lt. Inv. Jordan Clayton, “We’re seeing COAM machines used in ways that enable illegal gambling, harm families, and degrade the safety and reputation of entire neighborhoods.”
While COAM machines are legal in Georgia when used in compliance with the law, misuse can bring lasting harm to the community. Improperly managed machines have been linked to increased criminal activity, including theft, fraud, and loitering in and around affected businesses, gambling addiction, and financial strain, especially in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, or for those with limited resources.
“These findings are troubling and highlight a pattern of total disregard for the rules that are meant to ensure honest play and community safety,” said Inv. Camron Roubieu.
Businesses that violate the laws governing COAM operations create an unfair disadvantage for local retailers who comply with the rules. When bad actors operate outside the law, they cast a shadow over legitimate businesses that work hard to do things the right way, such as maintaining proper licenses, training staff, and upholding legal standards. Yet they still risk reputational harm due to the actions of others.
“Every business has a responsibility to the community it serves,” said Lt. Clayton. “When stores break the rules, it doesn’t just hurt their customers — it undermines the trust and fairness that legitimate businesses work hard to uphold.”
Location Owners, Location Operators, and Master License Holders who host COAM machines have a shared duty to ensure lawful operation. Failing to do so — or ignoring obvious violations — contributes to a cycle of community degradation.
The Floyd County Police Department will continue to conduct unannounced compliance checks and pursue enforcement actions. However, enforcement alone is not a long-term solution. A meaningful change requires cooperation from all parties in the COAM industry. “We are calling on all business owners, and licensees to do their part,” Chief Mark Wallace emphasized. “Protect your customers. Respect your community. Follow the law.”
This should also serve as a warning to all clerks and attendants employed at establishments that may be in violation of local laws or ordinances. Be advised that you may be held personally accountable for certain violations, particularly those involving criminal activity such as issuing cash payouts for COAM prizes.
The Floyd County Police Department urges any clerk who is instructed to issue COAM cash payouts to contact us immediately. Your cooperation is essential in helping us enforce the law and ensuring that you are not placed in a compromising legal position.
Consumers and community members are encouraged to report suspicious COAM activity by contacting the Floyd County Police Department. Reports can be made anonymously.
