The Lodge Poker Club Raided Amid Suspected Money Laundering Investigation

The Lodge Card Club in Round Rock, Texas, was raided on March 10, 2026, by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected money laundering and illegal gambling. The raid has led to the temporary closure of the popular poker room and has raised questions about the legality of the card room model in Texas.

Investigation Details

The TABC’s Financial Crimes Unit, along with the Special Investigations Unit and Operations Bureau, executed a search and seizure warrant at the Lodge Card Club, according to a statement from TABC Director of Communications Chris Porter . The investigation began in June 2024 following a confidential report of questionable financial activity .

Investigators analyzed bank records and discovered approximately $1.35 million was deposited from The Lodge through a cash vault into an account held by Tempus Holdings, Inc., a business associated with the card club, between January and February 2025 . Transfers totaling approximately $808,000 were also made from a Tempus Holdings account to a sweeps account during the same period .

Undercover Operations

The TABC conducted multiple undercover operations between April 2025 and January 2026, with agents playing poker at The Lodge and meticulously documenting their experiences . Agents noted chip purchases, beverage orders, security presence, and winnings or losses during each session. During one session, an agent inquired about hosting a private poker game and received conflicting information regarding membership requirements .

Legal Landscape of Texas Poker Rooms

Gambling is generally illegal in Texas, but a loophole allows poker rooms like The Lodge and Texas Card House to operate by charging membership and seat fees rather than collecting rake . The TABC investigation is scrutinizing whether The Lodge is adhering to these regulations.

Ownership and Investors

The Lodge Card Club is co-owned by high-profile poker players Doug Polk, Andrew Neeme, and Brad Owen, along with numerous other investors . Polk, Jake Abdalla, and Jason Levin are the majority shareholders, owning 63.3% of the company . Other investors include poker players Jamie Kerstetter, Nick Petrangelo, Ryan Fee, and Jaman Burton .

Current Status and Future Outlook

As of March 18, 2026, no arrests have been made and no charges have been filed in connection with the investigation . The Lodge Card Club in Round Rock remains closed, and its reopening date is uncertain. The Lodge Card Club in San Antonio continues to operate . Doug Polk has stated he had no knowledge of any money laundering activities at the club .