Texas poker club raided as authorities freeze player funds mid-tournament
State police and the Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission (TABC) raided The Lodge Card Club early on Tuesday. The sudden operation disrupted ongoing poker activities and left players uncertain about their funds. Authorities required everyone to show identification before leaving the venue.
The raid took place without prior warning, catching both staff and players off guard. Tournament participants were instructed not to remove their chips from the premises. Instead, they were promised a refund or a future entry to another event.
Cash game players, however, were allowed to take their chips home. Club management assured them they could return later to redeem the chips or resume play. Doug Polk, co-owner of The Lodge Card Club, quickly addressed concerns by confirming that all player funds remained secure. The World Poker Tour (WPT) announced the postponement of its Lodge Wildcard: Wacky Weekend of Poker event. Originally scheduled for March 13-15, the decision came due to what organisers described as 'circumstances outside of their control.' While the TABC has not publicly confirmed the reason for the raid, speculation suggests it may involve the venue's liquor licence.
The investigation remains ongoing, with the TABC leading the inquiry. Players affected by the raid have been given instructions on how to recover their funds or chips. The club's future operations and the rescheduling of the WPT event will depend on the outcome of the probe.
