Suspected Robber Faces Charges after $20K Jackpot Theft in AC

A man, suspected of robbing a lucky jackpot winner at an Atlantic City casino earlier this year was hit with a number of criminal charges last week. The man, identified with the initials R.R., from Newark, allegedly robbed one lucky player who had won $20,000 at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in the coastal resort city.

Last week, the 51-year-old suspect was charged with third-degree aggravated assault and theft by unlawful taking. Moreover, the alleged robber was charged with second-degree robbery and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon.

Superior Court Judge Dorothy Garrabrant confirmed the charges against the Newark resident, as announced by West Island Community News. After the charges, the suspected robber’s sentencing is scheduled for July 18, 2024.

Per New Jersey’s laws, an aggravated assault in the third degree carries a sentence of between three and five years in prison for first-time offenders. On the other hand, a second-degree robbery can be subject to a fine of $150,000 along with a prison term between five and 10 years.

When it comes to robberies in particular, charges may jump to a first-degree crime in case the perpetrator uses a deadly weapon to threaten the victim, makes an attempt to take the life of the victim or inflicts a serious injury.

The penalty for theft by unlawful taking in New Jersey depends on the value of the goods obtained. Sums between $500 and $75,000 which are obtained through unlawful taking carry a penalty fine of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence between three and five years.

Still, it’s important to note that charges are merely accusations unless proven beyond reasonable doubt in court.

The Robbery Was Carried Out in the Parking Garage of the Casino
The victim of the suspected robber was identified with the initials D.H. Visiting Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, the victim won a $20,000 jackpot the night before the attack. The suspect saw the lucky winner on the night they scored the win and the two had a short talk.

On the next day, the 51-year-old saw the victim once again, but this time asked him for a ride, claiming that he missed a bus ride. While the two were walking to the victim’s car in the parking garage of the casino, the perpetrator allegedly hit the victim on the head with a bottle of wine.

Once the victim was on the ground, the suspect took the $20,000 jackpot money from him, along with other personal belongings. After that, the 51-year-old fled the scene.

Upon investigating, police quickly identified the Newark man as a suspect in the violent case. CCTV helped track his movements while at the casino which ultimately led to his detention and criminal charges.