Chương 66: Chapter 66 – Seeking Cooperation
Bill was skeptical about whether slot machines could be a profitable venture.
Hardy, however, was confident. "Have people count how many places on our site can accommodate slot machines and pinball machines," he instructed.
"Nightclubs, bars, restaurants, hotel lobbies, barbershops, small shops, grocery stores—anywhere there are patrons," Hardy elaborated.
Bill agreed and got to work.
Two days later, the numbers were in: there were over 380 suitable locations within the Spanish Gang's territory.
"The business owners are on board. They're willing to host the machines, especially since there's no protection fee and they stand to gain from the profits," Bill reported.
"The main concern now is whether the machines will be profitable and if the police might intervene," Bill added.
Gambling is legal only in Nevada, home to Las Vegas. In other states, gambling, including slot machines and pinball machines, is generally illegal. However, this type of gambling is relatively minor. The police typically only confiscate the machines rather than penalize gamblers or shop owners.
"Start with 50 machines and distribute them. We'll evaluate the results in a week and decide the next steps based on the income," Hardy directed.
Bill agreed and left to carry out the plan.
In San Francisco, Bill purchased 20 slot machines and 30 pinball machines, costing $95 and $30 each, respectively. These were shipped to Los Angeles and placed in various bars, barbershops, and convenience stores.
Bill monitored the situation daily.
In a bar, patrons were intrigued by the slot machine. "Are the police going to care about this?" one asked.
"What does it matter? It's just for fun," another responded, inserting a dime into the machine.
As the machine whirred and stopped on three bells, a cascade of coins spilled out. Excitement ensued, drawing more patrons and increasing the bar's lively atmosphere.
In a barbershop, two pinball machines were installed. Customers waiting for their turns played the machines, exchanging iron beads for a cent each. The machines became a hit, subtly blending gambling with entertainment.
One week later, Bill collected the data. He rushed to Hardy with the report, visibly excited.
"Boss, look at these numbers! We're set to make a fortune!"
The 20 slot machines had each made over $100 in profit, covering the initial investment in just one week. The 30 pinball machines each earned over $30 weekly.
"Boss, Simon calculated that with 200 slot machines and 400 pinball machines, the annual profit would exceed $1.6 million," Bill reported.
"This is more profitable than dealing drugs," Bill added.
"However, some machines were confiscated by the police. The key issue now is handling the police," Bill noted.
Hardy considered this. "Bill, are you willing to meet with the chief of the Los Angeles Police Department?" Hardy asked with a smile.
Bill was taken aback. As a gang member, he naturally harbored a deep-seated apprehension toward the police.
"You want me to bribe him?" Bill asked.
"Exactly. Establish a connection and preemptively address any potential issues. This will ensure the slot machine business can thrive," Hardy explained.
Bill, despite his fears, agreed. "I'll arrange the meeting."
Hardy, confident in Bill's determination, prepared him for the meeting.
They discussed strategy for over two hours, focusing on how to handle the situation with the police.
Ed, the 46-year-old police chief with two years in his role, had an extensive career and strong connections. His current mistress, Rila, was a high-profile woman he was involved with, a fact that contributed to his arrogance.
As Ed left his mistress and headed toward his car in the dark, he was approached by Bill, who introduced himself.
"Hello, Director Ed. I'm Bill Pitt," Bill said with a smile.
Ed, suspicious, replied coldly, "And who might you be? What do you want?"
"I'd like to discuss something with you," Bill said.
"Are you causing trouble?" Ed asked.
Bill simply replied, "I'm here to resolve issues."
The two got into Ed's car. Bill presented an envelope filled with $10,000. Ed, experienced in such matters, immediately recognized the bribe attempt.
"You're trying to bribe the chief of police. That's a felony with a heavy prison sentence," Ed warned.
Bill, unfazed, introduced himself as Dani's nephew, claiming Dani had retired and passed the Spanish Gang's control to him.
Ed's expression shifted from surprise to concern. He realized the implications of what Bill was saying. Dani had always been manipulative and ruthless. The sudden shift in power and the fact that Dani had supposedly retired was suspect.
"I don't know Dani. Leave now," Ed ordered, preparing to investigate Bill's claims.
Bill was prepared for this resistance. He presented photos showing Ed with various women, indicating potential scandals.
Ed's face paled as he recognized the images from his past.
Bill made it clear, "I know you carry a gun, but we have four men in the car behind us. Any attempt to resist, and they'll make sure you don't get out of this car alive."
Ed, realizing the gravity of the situation, relented.
"What do you want?" Ed asked through gritted teeth.
Bill smiled. "It's simple: cooperation."
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