An internationally acclaimed stage illusionist and casino cheat who used misdirection techniques from his magic acts to manipulate roulette tables across America was extradited from California to Nevada where charges have been filed for his alleged offenses.
Shaun Mistery (Shaun Benward in Iowa), was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment after engaging in fraudulent acts at Grand Falls Casino in 2018. Though already serving time, multiple felony charges have now been levelled against him in Nevada including fraud and conspiracies to violate Gaming Control Act violations; additionally he was banned from 17 casinos throughout Nevada as well as placed on Nevada’s Black Book, an authoritative list that prohibits individuals from gambling facilities across Nevada.
Cheating Method Uncovered
Though details regarding Benward’s cheating methods remain undisclosed due to ongoing legal proceedings, law enforcement reports show he employed social manipulation and confusion to carry out his schemes. For example, law enforcement reports reveal he engaged roulette dealers in conversation just prior to wagers being closed before contesting where his chips had been placed after winning numbers were announced – such actions likely disorient dealers enough that bets closed, then later denied placing of chips after winning numbers had been revealed.
Authorities believe Benward worked closely with accomplices who provided backup to pressure dealers during disputes regarding bets placed with dealers. To evade detection, Benward frequently changed his appearance or clothing between visits in order to return without being noticed by staff or security cameras at different casinos.
Prosecutors also allege that Benward structured his cash outs to avoid scrutiny by breaking up larger winnings into multiple smaller amounts and redeeming through various cashiers to remain under currency reporting limits.
Long Evasion and Multi-State Charges
Benward was arrested and charged with money laundering, cheating at gambling and conspiracy after defrauding Grand Falls Casino out of $10,000 in December 2018 through various scams. Initially managing to avoid Iowa authorities for seven years prior to being taken into custody by Mississippi police on April 20,25 in Mississippi.
At that time, he amassed charges against himself across numerous states including Pennsylvania, Delaware, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Indiana, Rhode Island and Nevada for casino cheating, money laundering and fraud.
Due to his wide-ranging activities and ability to evade capture, Benward quickly became one of the Nevada Gaming Control Board’s highest priority targets. Officials remain committed to tracking down offenders like him in order to bring justice.
If you are looking for online casino options, check our casino reviews for latest opinions, info, bonuses and promotions. remember to check the legality of playing in your country by filtering down based on licenses.
