Police Warn Gamers After Man Robs Woman Leaving PA Casino
By Joe Holden
UPPER DARBY, Pa. (CBS) -- Police are warning against predators, lurking on casino floors, looking for a jackpot and investigators say they will go out of their way to get their hands on your money.
Late Saturday, at Harrah's Casino in Chester, a player won big at the slots. For the victim, it was a $6,600 pay day. "He's a thug. He's a bum," said Upper Darby Police Superintendent Michael Chitwood, regarding Gary Taylor.
Police say Taylor followed the jackpot winner to make a score of his own.
"She has no idea what's going on. She's by herself. She's walking in the house," Chitwood said of the victim. Police say Taylor followed the 59-year-old woman all the way home and made his move at her front door.
"He grabs her," described Chitwood. He added that Taylor grabbed the money and shoved the woman, before taking off.
Police say the woman was able to get a description of Taylor's car and that at 350 pounds, Taylor wasn't moving too quickly.
The woman called 9-1-1.
Police were able to locate the suspected robber and after a brief pursuit, they were able to end the chase. Police are calling this a cautionary tale for any big winner at a casino.
"The problem is, at these casinos, they always got these predators that are laying in wait to watch people win. Just take a check," Chitwood said.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board says that is sounds advice from Chitwood. They also remind people that jackpot winners can seek security if they feel uncomfortable and need an escort to their car.
As for the victim in this case, the police did get her $6,600 back.
