When we think about casinos, like Raging Bulls Casino, the thrill of gambling, bright lights, and the promise of potential wins often come to mind. However, the world of casinos isn’t immune to scandal. This article uncovers some of the most famous casino scandals in history.
MIT Blackjack Team
Perhaps one of the most infamous gambling sagas involves the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Blackjack Team. In the 1990s, this group of students and ex-students devised a sophisticated card counting system to beat casinos at blackjack across the globe. Their activities, while not technically illegal, were frowned upon by casinos, and many members of the team faced bans.
The Tran Organisation
Over six years, the Tran Organisation swindled over $7 million from 29 different casinos. The team executed a false shuffle gambling scheme that involved tracking specific card sequences during blackjack and mini-baccarat games. However, their criminal operation came to an end in 2007 when law enforcement arrested them.
The Roselli Brothers
In the mid-90s, the Roselli Brothers from Italy found a loophole in the credit systems of major US casinos. They opened gambling accounts in multiple casinos, gaining significant credit after showing substantial cash deposits. Using other people’s identities, they borrowed millions of dollars from the casinos without intending to pay it back. By the time their scheme was discovered in 2000, the brothers had vanished, along with the money.
Phil Ivey’s Edge Sorting Scandal
Renowned poker player Phil Ivey found himself embroiled in a scandal in 2012 when he used a technique known as “edge sorting” to win millions playing baccarat in two casinos. Edge sorting involves identifying small differences in the patterns on the backs of cards to predict their face value. Both casinos refused to pay out his winnings, leading to ongoing legal battles.
Ron Harris and the Software Scam
A former Gaming Control Board employee, Ron Harris, exploited his extensive knowledge of casino gaming software to rig slot machines to pay out large sums. He and his accomplice were finally caught in 1998, putting an end to their illegal activities.
These scandals highlight the lengths that some individuals will go to beat the system. They serve as a reminder of the importance of rules and regulations in the gambling world to ensure fair play for all. Ultimately, casinos are spaces of entertainment and should be treated as such.
