Doug Polk took to X on Monday morning with an update after last week's raid of his Lodge Card Club by state authorities in Texas.
Polk is part-owner of the Round Rock, Texas card club, which was the subject of a search warrant. Authorites from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and the Internal Revenue Service participated in the raid, later confirming it was an investigation into suspected money laundering and illegal gambling.
Polk later called the investigation a "witch hunt."
"I did not participate in, and still have no knowledge of, any money laundering in the operation of the Lodge," Polk said in his statement on X.
'Just one step in the investigation'
"I understand that some people assume that because there was a search warrant, a crime must have been committed, but that’s not really how the process works. A search warrant is just one step in an investigation, based on an affidavit from law enforcement."
Polk said that affidavit has not been given to the Lodge. Affidavits are generally kept under wraps while an investigation is active, but it would be released to the defense if charges are filed.
He also expressed concern for the employees at the Lodge, who are now without a job. "These are good, kind, hardworking people, and it is painful to see them struggle through this uncertainty."
Polk reiterates player fund pledge
Another issue at play is the safety of player funds. The Lodge said in a statement on Sunday that bank accounts and assets have been frozen. Polk said once again that he is committed to guaranteeing player funds.
"I also care deeply about the situation for our members. There are numerous people with both chip balances and tournament payouts that cannot currently be processed. I want to reiterate that these members will be made whole, and I will personally make sure that happens, in coordination with my attorneys, so that it is done properly."
"With the advice of my lawyers, I am committed to cooperating with law enforcement officials, answering any questions they have, and doing everything I can to clear up the confusion of what has and has not been happening at The Lodge."
Polk expects to provide another update soon, once his attorneys have had the opportunity to "fully assess the situation."
