Cheating at a Casino: A Crime in Michigan

Cheating in a Michigan casino is a serious offense. Under Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) 432.218, any form of deception to manipulate casino games can lead to criminal charges. This includes:

• Using counterfeit chips or tampering with real chips
• Marking or altering cards to gain an advantage
• Electronic devices used to influence outcomes
• Colluding with dealers or other players to cheat
• Past posting or capping bets (adding or removing chips after results are determined)

Casinos use advanced surveillance technology to detect cheating, and security personnel are well-trained in recognizing suspicious activity. If you’re caught, penalties can range from heavy fines to felony charges.

What Are the Legal Penalties for Cheating?

Michigan doesn’t take casino cheating lightly. The law categorizes violations as either misdemeanors or felonies based on the severity of the crime.

Misdemeanor Charges

Some lesser cheating offenses, such as attempting to use unauthorized chips, may be charged as misdemeanors. If convicted, you could face:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Fines up to $10,000

Felony Charges

More serious forms of cheating, particularly those involving organized efforts to defraud the casino, are considered felonies. A felony casino crime can result in:

• Up to 10 years in prison
• Fines up to $100,000

What may seem like harmless "gaming the system" can quickly escalate into a prison sentence. If you are accused of cheating, it’s critical to seek legal representation immediately.

Disorderly Conduct in a Casino

Not all crimes in a casino involve card tricks and loaded dice. Disorderly conduct can also land you in legal trouble. Common cases include:

• Public intoxication and disruptive behavior
• Fighting with other patrons
• Damaging casino property
• Refusing to leave when asked

Under MCL 750.167, disorderly conduct includes a wide range of behaviors that disturb the peace. Casinos employ security and work closely with the Detroit Police Department and state law enforcement to ensure order.

Possible Penalties for Disorderly Conduct

Being disorderly in a casino may not carry the same weight as cheating, but you could still face:

• A misdemeanor charge
• Up to 90 days in jail
• Fines up to $500

Additionally, casinos have the right to ban you for life if your conduct is severe enough. This means you won't be welcome at MGM Grand, MotorCity, or any affiliated gaming establishments.

How Casinos Handle Security and Law Enforcement

Casinos invest heavily in security personnel, advanced surveillance systems, and partnerships with local law enforcement. If you're suspected of cheating or engaging in disorderly conduct, you may face:

• Immediate detention by casino security
• Police intervention and possible arrest
• Confiscation of winnings (if gained through fraudulent means)
• A permanent ban from the establishment

Casinos document incidents meticulously. If you are accused, security footage, witness statements, and other evidence will likely be used against you in court.

What to Do If You're Accused of a Casino Crime

Being accused of a crime in a casino is stressful. If you’re confronted by security or law enforcement, keep these tips in mind:

• Remain calm: Getting defensive or aggressive will only make matters worse.
• Do not admit to anything: Even if you think you’re justifying your actions, your words can be used against you.
• Request legal representation: You have the right to an attorney—exercise that right immediately.
• Do not sign any statements: Casinos may ask you to sign a statement admitting wrongdoing. Decline until you've spoken with a lawyer.

If you've been detained, call an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Finding Legal Help After a Casino Crime Accusation

If you or someone you know has been arrested for casino fraud or disorderly conduct at MGM Grand or MotorCity, you need an attorney who understands Michigan's gaming laws. At Boria Law, we have extensive experience defending clients against casino-related charges.

Criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria can help. We’ve successfully defended individuals facing serious charges, working to have cases dismissed or penalties reduced.

Contact us today:

• Phone: (734) 453-7806
• Website: plymouthcriminalattorney.com

Don’t gamble with your future—get the legal representation you need to fight your charges and protect your rights.

Conclusion

Casinos are meant to be fun, but Michigan law strictly penalizes criminal activity within gaming establishments. Whether it’s cheating at a table game or becoming unruly after one too many drinks, these actions can lead to arrest, hefty fines, and jail time.

If you’re facing accusations of a casino crime, do not try to handle the situation alone. Work with an experienced criminal defense lawyer to ensure your rights are protected and to pursue the best outcome in court.

Need help? Call us now at (734) 453-7806 for a free consultation. Your best defense starts here.