Homestead police have received a $79,000 state grant to use in cracking down on illegal slot machines and other unsanctioned gambling devices.

The grant was approved Tuesday by the state Gaming Control Board. The slots law of 2004 provided for "law enforcement grants'' to local police around the state. They are to use the grants to find and shut down illegal gambling machines in bars and restaurants.

Shutting down the illegal devices is aimed at boosting the bottom line at the seven existing casinos in Pennsylvania, including The Meadows in Washington County and Presque Isle Downs in Erie. An eighth casino is projected to be open on Pittsburgh's North Shore next August.