Former Police Officer Sentenced to 12 Years for Casino Robberies Amidst Gambling Addiction
Caleb Rogers, once a respected Las Vegas Metro Police officer, was handed down a 12-year prison sentence on Tuesday, following his conviction in July for robbing off-the-beaten-path casinos. His illegal exploits focused on the Red Rock Resort, Aliante Hotel, and the Rio where Rogers netted an illicit haul of $165K between November 2021 and February 2022.
The downward spiral culminated in his undoing during the final heist on February 27, 2022, at the Rio. After threatening to shoot the sportsbook staff and brandishing a weapon toward security officers, the Rio team managed to overpower and disarm him, subsequently leading to his incarceration. The weapon in question, disturbingly, was his department-issued revolver.
Emerging from the court case was an image of a man driven to desperation by an unrelenting gambling addiction. An array of charges were brought against Rogers, including brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and three counts of interference with commerce by robbery. A notably damning element was the testimony of his own brother, Josiah Rogers, who verified that they had originally plotted the initial robbery together.
Despite the incriminating words of his brother, Rogers’ attorney sought to undermine the strength of the evidence linking his client to the robberies at the Red Rock and Aliante. However, the prosecution successfully argued that the modus operandi for each crime was strikingly consistent.
In the moments preceding the delivering of the sentence, Rogers addressed US District Judge Andrew Gordon, expressing his remorse for the impact of his actions on his family and greater community. He voiced his recognition of his wrongdoings and his fervent hope for redemption.
Judge Gordon, in announcing the sentence, acknowledged Rogers’ previous status as a community servant and his struggle with a gambling addiction. He voiced his sympathy, stating, “You served your community well for a time, unfortunately, it appears your demons got the better of you.”
No doubt, many are hoping that this unfortunate story will serve as a cautionary tale for others who may struggle with gambling addiction. As a reminder, for those contemplating an indulgence in casino games, it’s essential to remember to play responsibly. It’s possible to enjoy this pastime safely and securely, and we here at the West Island Blog have recommended resources to make this easier. By visiting our online casino page, you can discover the top online casinos for this month, which we have curated particularly for our Canadian readers. They provide not only the thrill of the game but also the assurance of your safety as you immerse yourself in a world of chance and skill.