Attorney General Bonta: Card Dealer’s Luck Runs Out, Arrested for Grand Theft

LOS ANGELES — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the arrest of a card dealer for stealing over $15,000 in gaming chips. On April 15, 2026, California Department of Justice (DOJ) arrested the dealer at The Gardens Casino in Hawaiian Gardens, California for grand theft.  

“When someone entrusted with maintaining fairness in a card room instead stacks the decks for themselves, they must be held accountable,” said Attorney General Bonta. “This case is an excellent example of good investigative work and a timely arrest. Gaming must be conducted with integrity and transparency.” 

In March 2026, DOJ received information that a cardroom dealer was suspected of stealing gaming chips from The Gardens Casino. Investigators reviewed pertinent information and worked collaboratively with cardroom staff. DOJ’s Bureau of Gambling Control (BGC) conducted this investigation and made the arrest. The mission of BGC is to ensure gambling in California is conducted honestly, competitively, and free from criminal and corruptive elements.

It is important to note that a criminal indictment contains charges that are only allegations against a person. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.