Former Poker Dealer Faces Charges for Alleged Theft at JACK Cleveland Casino
The world of high-stakes poker has been shaken by allegations of theft at JACK Cleveland Casino, where a former poker dealer, Jason Saliba, is accused of stealing chips directly from the pot while on duty. Saliba, 51, from North Olmsted, Ohio, has been indicted on 14 counts of violating casino gaming laws—a fifth-degree felony—and one count of misdemeanor theft. These charges stem from accusations that he stole from players during poker games over a one-month period.
The incident came to light on September 6, 2024, when a vigilant player at the poker table reported suspicious activity to casino staff. According to the Ohio Casino Control Commission’s report, surveillance footage revealed five initial instances where Saliba allegedly pocketed chips from the game’s pot. Subsequent investigations uncovered a total of 14 thefts, though the stolen amount is said to be under $1,000, categorizing it as a misdemeanor.
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Following the discovery, Saliba was fired the very next day. He was later arraigned in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court and released on a personal bond. If convicted, Saliba faces serious consequences, including up to 12 months in jail for the felony charge and up to 180 days for the misdemeanor.
This case is one of several involving casino-related thefts investigated by the Ohio Casino Control Commission, which oversees all gambling operations in the state. From July 2023 to June 2024, there were 24 reported cheating incidents in Ohio’s casinos, with 12 occurring at JACK Cleveland Casino alone. Those convicted of such offenses are permanently banned from all Ohio gambling establishments and placed on the commission’s involuntary exclusion list. Saliba could join six former employees already on this list for theft-related violations.
Interestingly, Saliba’s case isn’t isolated. Just months earlier, another individual was accused of cheating at the same casino during a craps game. This string of incidents highlights the challenges casinos face in maintaining fairness and security, even with advanced surveillance systems and strict regulations.
The outcome of Saliba’s trial could serve as a cautionary tale, reinforcing the high standards expected of casino staff and the severe penalties for those who betray the trust of players and employers alike. The Ohio Casino Control Commission continues to monitor the case as the legal process unfolds.
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