Why Are Casinos Such Popular Targets for Robbers?

Casino robberies have increased over the last decade. Can you remember the story of Anthony Carleo – the armed robber who walked into Las Vegas’ Bellagio casino and made away with a whopping $1.5 million worth of chips. 

This famous story backs the fact that casinos are extremely vulnerable to robbery. So why then are they targeted? Here are the reasons. 

Millions of Dollars Are Floating Around Casinos 

Many people believe that casinos have millions of dollars spread out across the casino floors including the cages, various tables, and slot machines. And since casinos are less protected than banks, they present a lucrative opportunity that seems so tempting to criminals. 

Plenty of Jackpots Winners

Casinos have a few crooks who purposely hang out in casinos waiting for jackpot winners to be announced. They will follow gamblers out to the parking lot or back to their homes just to rob them along the way. 

It is a good idea to ask for a security escort after a big win or call the police if you feel that somebody suspicious is trailing you. 

Lack of Enough Security 

Lack of armed security guards can be another good reason why casinos create a conducive environment for criminals. Robbers usually don't feel like they are going to face down armed security. 

Additionally, Casinos are insured institutions so they don’t bother hiring security officers to engage criminals in a robbery attempt. After all, their insurance company will cover the losses resulting from robbery incidents. 

Lack of Surveillance Cameras 

Most casinos lack sophisticated technology, instead, they have poor surveillance systems with low-quality footage and bad video cameras that make it harder to investigate robberies in the aftermath. 

Gambling is Perceived as A Vice

There are several reasons why robbers feel justified when they rob a gambler or casino. First, they perceive gambling as one of the biggest vices in society, and therefore, they feel that gamblers and casinos don’t deserve to own the proceeds of gambling. 

Secondly, they feel that gambling is a form of scam that’s taking money from the gambling community, and therefore, crooks take revenge by attacking the gamblers and casinos. 

Inspiration from Ocean’s Eleven Movie 

Ocean’s Eleven is a 2001 movie that revolves around a gang of armed robbers who stole $150 million from the Bellagio. This film seems to have inspired some copycats who try to live out the Ocean’s eleven fantasies. 

Final Thoughts 

To reduce the chances of scammed or robbed at the casino, there are a few things you must do; never brag about winnings on social media, request for a security escort after winning a jackpot, and always visit a casino with a friend or two.

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