The owners of the Koffee Kettle and Davenport Bonding Co. in Columbiana have been charged with promoting gambling, according to media reports.

Judy Queen and Rhondah Garrett were arrested after the Shelby County Drug Task force raided their businesses on July 19. The women were both released on $500 bond.

The women had held weekly Texas Hold’em poker tournaments at their businesses for about two months prior the raids, reports indicate.

C. Todd Henderson, the attorney representing the two owners, told media he believed his clients were not at fault because they did not profit from the games.

Shelby County District Attorney Robby Owens contends, however, that as host of a tournament, the business attracts potential customers, thereby profiting from the game.

Attempts to contact Queen and Garrett were unsuccessful at presstime.

&045;&045; Staff Report