High-tech casino cheating charged

Two dozen people are accused of cheating casinos in several states and Canada out of more than $3 million since 2002 by using technology and bribes to rig card games.

According to indictments unsealed in San Diego and Seattle, participants in the scheme would signal a dealer to do a false shuffle and bet on the known order of the cards. The indictments also allege that players used hidden transmitters and special software to predict the order in which cards would appear.

Among those indicted is the son of Seattle, Wash., Mayor Greg Nickels.

Authorities said the scheme targeted 18 gaming parlors in Canada, California, Nevada, Mississippi, Louisiana, Washington, Indiana and Connecticut.

Bribes were paid to casino supervisors and dealers during blackjack and mini baccarat. The mayor's son worked as a pit boss at an Indian casino in Washington.
Source : http://www.krqe.com