Sheriff Wes Tripp said today if they are found to be in operation an investigation will be opened.

If a clear violation is found any owner or operator will be charged and could face federal litigation by the Eastern District United States Attorney's Office.

In addition, any establishment found to be in operation runs the risk of having machines confiscated and held in evidence. The owners could be held responsible for paying the storage fees for confiscated equipment, Tripp said.

“Sweepstakes Internet and sweepstakes machines have always been against the law,” Tripp said. “I, as sheriff, have been very patient with enforcement of that general statute because of pending litigation to and from the appellate courts of North Carolina, strong rumors that the General Assembly was going to make it legal and trying to be conservative with Halifax County tax dollars.”

Tripp said he plans to personally inspect the establishments today through Thursday.

It remains unclear where state lawmakers stand and an industry lobbyist told rrspin.com last week he didn't feel comfortable discussing the matter unless the website was onboard and willing to make a donation to the lobbying efforts.