Rhode Island Casino Crimes Lawyer

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Casino Crimes Attorney in Rhode Island

Twin River Casino in Lincoln and the Tiverton Casino are two popular destinations for fun, gambling and entertainment in Rhode Island. However, if you are accused of a crime at one of these places, the night of fun will end quickly. Casino crimes are taken seriously by the casinos themselves and when law enforcement gets involved, they too take it seriously.

Whether you get accused of cheating, theft, disorderly conduct, trespassing or some other type of crime, you do not have to fight the charges alone. You can contact an experienced Casino Crimes lawyer in Rhode Island to help you fight the charges, like the criminal defense lawyers at Ellison Law LLC.

Our criminal defense lawyers have years of experience representing people accused of crimes. We help provide a strategic defense to help challenge casino surveillance video and other evidence, negotiate with prosecutors and fight for the best outcome possible.

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What is Considered Casino Gaming in Rhode Island?

Under Rhode Island General Laws § 42-61.2-1, “casino gaming” includes a wide range of table and casino-style games played for money, credit or any other valuables. The games can be played with cards, dice, or equipment. These games include roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, and other Class III games as defined under federal law (25 U.S.C. § 2703(8)). Casino gaming in the state is strictly regulated by the Division of State Lottery to ensure fair play and compliance with legal standards.

What Are the Most Common Casino Gaming Crimes?

Rhode Island General Laws § 42-61.3-2 criminalizes several fraudulent activities related to casino gaming. Some of the most common offenses include:

  • Using Cheating Devices – Attempting to use devices designed to manipulate casino games is illegal.
  • Possessing Counterfeit Gaming Currency – Using or holding counterfeit gaming chips, tokens, or coins is a serious offense.
  • Manipulating Games or Equipment – Altering physical, mechanical, or electronic components of a casino game for an unfair advantage is prohibited.
  • Placing or Changing Bets Illegally – Increasing or decreasing bets after an outcome is known is a crime.
  • Using Unauthorized Electronic Betting Assistance – Any attempt to gain an advantage using unauthorized devices is against the law.
  • Casino Employee Fraud – Employees who fail to collect losing wagers or fraudulently pay out winnings can face severe penalties.

What Are the Penalties for Casino Gaming Crimes?

Casino gaming crimes in Rhode Island are felony offenses and carry serious consequences. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-61.3-2(b), individuals convicted of casino gaming crimes may face the following penalties:

  • Imprisonment – Most casino crime violations charged under R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-61.3-2(b) are punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years.
  • Fines – Convicted individuals may also be subject to significant monetary fines, sometimes up to $100,000.
  • Restitution – Courts may order restitution to any casino or individual affected by the fraudulent conduct.
  • Forfeiture of Property – Items used in the commission of the crime, such as cheating devices or counterfeit currency, may be seized and forfeited.

Even if the attempt to cheat or defraud is unsuccessful, it is still a punishable crime under the law. R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-61.3-2(b) explicitly prohibits both completed and attempted acts of fraud in casino gaming.

These penalties apply to a range of acts, including cheating, using or possessing cheating devices or counterfeit currency, manipulating or altering gaming equipment, and influencing outcomes of games through bribery. Even attempts to commit these offenses can be prosecuted as crimes.

Because these are felony-level charges, a conviction can also result in long-term consequences such as a permanent criminal record and difficulty obtaining employment.

Defenses for Gambling-Related Charges in Rhode Island

Being charged with a gambling-related offense in Rhode Island doesn’t mean the end of the road. You can fight the charges. At Ellison Law LLC, we understand the unique legal and evidentiary issues that come with casino crime allegations. Our Rhode Island Casino Crimes lawyers will help you build a strategic defense designed to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Some possible common defenses to casino crimes include the following:

  • Lack of Intent – many crimes involve a component of intent. If something was unintentional, it could be a possible defense.
  • Insufficient Evidence – many casino crimes involve video evidence since there are cameras all over the casino. These cameras don’t always tell the whole story. The prosecution has to prove the crime beyond a reasonable doubt and will need sufficient evidence to do so.
  • Mistaken Identity – there are times that the wrong person is arrested and it was not you.

Why Should You Hire an Attorney for a Gambling Crime in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island’s gaming laws are complex, and facing casino-related charges without legal representation can have serious consequences. At Ellison Law LLC, our skilled Rhode Island Gambling Crime attorneys have experience defending clients accused of crimes at the casino, we provide strategic legal guidance, fight for your rights, and work to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

If you or someone you know has been accused of a casino gaming crime, don’t wait to seek legal help. At Ellison Law, we are committed to protecting your rights and providing a strategic and premium legal defense. Contact us today and let us fight for you! Call us now or visit our website to learn more about how we can help you.

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