Famous Gambler Pleads Not Guilty to Casino Cheating Scheme

Archie Karas, 62, is accused of card-marking at a San Diego casino blackjack table

A world-famous gambler accused of cheating in a casino was arraigned via video in a San Diego County courtroom Friday.

Archie Karas pleaded not guilty to burglary, winning by fraudulent means and cheating at a blackjack table at the Barona Casino.

Karas is known for holding the longest and largest documented winning streak in gambling history.

San Diego authorities say Karas, whose real name is Anargyros Karabourniotis, cheated the casino out of more than $8,000 in one sitting.

Prosecutors say the Barona Gaming Commission caught him on surveillance video marking cards at a blackjack table.
According to the DA’s office, card-marking is a gambling cheating technique in which a person β€œputs a subtle, but distinguishable mark on the back of playing cards.”

A good mark will likely not be apparent to the dealer or others at the table, but the cheater will be able to identify the mark and use the card to increase his or her chances of winning.

Karas was arrested at his Las Vegas home and extradited to San Diego.

The 62-year-old is best known for turning $50 into $40 million in the 1990s and gambling it all away.

Some consider Karas to be β€œthe greatest gambler of all time.”

San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis said the arrest is a reminder that cheaters will be caught and held accountable.

If convicted, Karas faces up to 3 years and 8 months behind bars.

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