The Navajo Nation on Monday signed an agreement under which it will lease the rights to more than 1,000 slot machines to three gaming tribes near Phoenix and Tucson. The deal, also signed by the Gila River Indian Community outside Phoenix and Chandler, the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, north of Fountain Hills, and the Tohono O'odham Nation, near Tucson, is expected to generate more than USD 100,000 for the Navajos over several years.

Millions of dollars in cash, cars and property were seized and 31 people arrested in raids that authorities said broke up four illegal gambling rings operating in three states. Undercover deputies had infiltrated the rings operating in Phoenix, Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio said. Bettors placed wagers over the Web, while bookies, collectors and loan sharks operated out of Phoenix-area bars and restaurants.