The dealer faced 14 counts of violating casino gaming laws in Ohio
A former poker dealer at JACK Cleveland Casino has pleaded guilty to multiple gambling violations after being caught stealing chips from cash game pots. Jason Saliba, who was initially charged with 14 counts of violating casino gaming laws and one count of misdemeanor theft, changed his plea in court yesterday as part of an agreement with prosecutors.
Saliba admitted to nine gambling violations, leading to the dismissal of the remaining charges, including the felony count he originally faced. While he could have been sentenced to jail time, he avoided prison and instead received a non-prison sentence that included fines and a lifetime ban from JACK Casino. The court also prohibited him from having any contact with his former employer.
The case against Saliba began in September 2024, when a player at a low-stakes poker game noticed the dealer pocketing chips from the pot. The player reported it to casino staff, who reviewed surveillance footage and confirmed the theft. Further investigation revealed that Saliba had stolen chips on 14 different occasions over the course of a month. However, because the total amount taken was less than $1,000, the charges were categorized as a misdemeanor rather than a felony under Ohio law.
Saliba had initially denied any wrongdoing, but after months of discussions between the defense and prosecution, he agreed to plead guilty to reduced charges. Despite avoiding jail, the guilty plea brings an end to his career in the casino industry, as the lifetime ban ensures he will never work at JACK Casino again.
