Bankers Casino employee arrested for alleged theft of $95,000
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV)- Salinas Police said they arrested an employee of Banker's Casino for a theft of $95,000 that occurred Sunday morning.
Jesus Arellano, 35, an employee with the casino, was the lead suspect after the investigation began. Officers served a warrant at his home on Thursday at the 300 block of West Street.
Police found $65,000 in stolen cash as well as items that looked newly purchased, like power tools and a mountain bike.
"He also had some items that he had purchased with some of the money," said Salinas Police Commander John Murray. "Obviously, some of the money is outstanding."
People who work nearby Bankers Casino were a bit shocked to hear about the news.
"At first, we had no idea what could've led somebody stealing that amount of money," said Slam Door employee Nata. "We had no idea if it was a violent crime, we just saw cops doing their investigation."
Salinas Police said that Arrellano walked to the main doors of the casino, went directly to where the cash was, stole the cash, loaded the cash to his backpack, and left through the north side doors.
People like Bill Freeman, who have been coming to the casino for years, finds the news a bit overwhelming.
"That's pretty rotten thing to do to someone you knew and probably worked there," said Freeman.
Arellano was booked into county jail for burglary, embezzlement, and conspiracy. According to the Monterey County Jail, his bail is set at $10,000.
Anyone with information on this case is encouraged to call Salinas Police at (831) 758-7321.
Bankers Casino General Manager said they were instructed not to comment on the theft by the owner.
Suspect steals $95,000 in cash from Bankers Casino in Salinas
Salinas Police said they are investigating a bank theft that occurred at Bankers Casino Sunday morning.
On Sunday morning, an employee arrived for their shift and began counting the casino's cash. The employee noticed a significant cash loss and determined a theft had occurred.
Police checked security cameras and said that at 7 a.m. A man entered the casino through the main doors Sunday morning and walked directly to the cash location. He then put the money in his backpack and casually walked out of the casino with $95,000 in cash.
Police described the suspect as a man from 5’10 – 6’, 200 lbs., wearing a black hoodie, with a black facemask and sunglasses and black pants.
The investigation is ongoing, and police ask anyone with information to call them at (831) 758-7321. If you want to remain anonymous, call the Salinas Police Department Tip Line at (831) 775-4222.
