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Mississippi Crowned Casino Heist Capital

MISSISSIPPI – As reported by the San Francisco Chronicle: "…When this cluster of casinos began sprouting in the cotton fields of rural Tunica County a decade ago, their beat-the-house allure was never meant to draw so many crooks. But the bandits are hooked on the region -- and can't seem to leave it alone.

"Now Mississippi finds itself the unlikely casino stick-up capital of America, topping even Las Vegas and Atlantic City, N.J., in robberies last year. In all, officials say, more than $1.3 million was stolen from its gaming houses, including a $760,000 hit in Tunica on July 7.

"Las Vegas police say the more than 150 casinos in their city experienced 14 heists in 2003. The Mississippi Delta, however, had 16 robberies -- and seven botched tries -- at only nine casinos.

"…While security has been tightened, Tunica officials quake at the possibility of a stray bullet fired by a jumpy robber spreading enough fear to strike their sole thriving industry in the heart.

"…Suspects in at least eight robberies have escaped.

"…Many of those arrested are locals under 25.

"…Casinos added surveillance cameras, placed more guards near cash cages and 'increased training to be the best witnesses,' said [Valerie Morris, spokeswoman for Park Place Entertainment]. A sheriff's department reorganization put more deputies on patrol, while the Highway Patrol brought officers to town for the sole purpose of nabbing casino bandits.

"…All for good reason, experts say. An unsafe reputation could severely impact a town like Tunica, so reliant on gambling for its economic base…"

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