Facing Charges for a Casino Crime? Talk to an Experienced Lawyer Now
There is one thing you can count on for sure in Atlantic City, crime doesn’t pay. In April, 21 New Jersey residents were indicted on charges that they used phony checks to get cash advances in some of Atlantic City’s casinos.
- If convicted, the ringleader faces up to 10 years in prison and $150,000 in fines.
- Others involved may face up to five years in prison a $15,000 in fines.
Check-related offenses are among the most common crimes committed in casinos. Whether you’re driven to commit these crimes by desperation due to debt or simply suffer a lapse in judgment, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to clearly and accurately explain the charges facing you, and your options.
Casino theft is a serious crime, but depending upon your history and the gravity of your offense, you may be able to avoid incarceration. If you’re accused of stealing under $200 worth of chips, this will be treated as a disorderly person’s offense and can carry up to six months’ of jail time. More severe charges can carry anywhere up to 18 months to 10 years in prison and $75,000 in fines. Additionally, one mistake could cause you to get banned from gaming establishments for years, if not the rest of your life. It’s imperative that you learn you talk to a lawyer to minimize penalty.
It’s not uncommon for people charged with casino crimes to attempt to get into pretrial intervention. This means that rather than face jail, you may be able to serve your sentence in a rehabilitation program and by performing community service. This also means that you will be spared from having a criminal conviction on your record. Without an attorney who is experienced in casino crimes, however, it can be very difficult to seek leniency and even argue for reduced sentencing. Don’t let a casino crime follow you for the rest of your life.
John W. Tumelty is a former prosecutor with years of experience representing clients in casino-related criminal matters. He is uniquely qualified to offer accurate insight and effective legal guidance with regard to the charges you are facing. Call today for a free consultation.