Four Arrested in Katy Poker Room Raid

Harris County authorities raided Katy Poker, on the Katy Freeway in Katy, on November 12, 2026, and arrested four people. The investigation had been underway for about a year, officials said. It was the second poker-room operation involving the Harris County District Attorney’s Office in three weeks.

Investigators say the business took a “rake,” or a cut from players’ winnings on each hand. Texas poker rooms may operate legally when they do not take a portion of winnings, officials said, citing seat rentals, food and drinks as ways legal businesses can earn money.

Authorities said the arrested people were suspected of working at the establishment, including in roles such as doorman, dealer and handling money. Customers who were playing were escorted out and were not accused of wrongdoing, officials said.

The four are accused of participating in a criminal enterprise, and prosecutors may also pursue money-laundering charges. Officials had not yet said what was seized, because the business search had not taken place by the time of their news conference.

The investigation will continue, including a review of financial records to determine whether the poker room was connected to other criminal activity. District Attorney Sean Teare said more enforcement actions could follow as county agencies work to address illegal gambling operations.