The Pelham Police Department raided a suspected Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournament Feb. 6, in which more than 72 people were present.

The Pelham Police, the Hoover Police and the Shelby County Task Force raided the suspected tournament at 1738-A Morgan Park Drive at approximately 3:10 p.m. after several months of a joint investigation. The raid took place in a building shared with an Elks Club, but the club was not associated with the poker tournaments.

“The message we’re trying to send is, quite simply, for illegal Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments to cease,” said Pelham Police Lt. Scott Tucker.

The more than 72 individuals present at the suspected tournament were identified and released.

Tucker said the tournament was producing large amounts of money and thousands of dollars were seized.

“This is not a mom and pop operation where you ask your buddies to come over to the house and play cards,” tucker said. “This is an organized group. It’s not just a group of friends coming to meet for some cards.”

Tucker said many of those present at the tournament were not from the area.

The investigation is ongoing and the results of the investigation will be forwarded to the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office.

Although no formal charges were filed, the names of the individuals involved will be released if warrants or indictments are issued.