Encore Boston Harbor Gambler Busted After Trying To Steal Casino Chips

A man was arrested after allegedly attempting to steal $13,000 worth of casino chips from the Encore Boston Harbor in Everett. According to the Massachusetts State Police, the suspect, Gary Hunt, 35, faced charges of larceny over $1,200 and larceny from a building following the incident on August 6.

The theft unfolded shortly after 6:00 PM when Massachusetts State Police assigned to the Gaming Enforcement Unit received a report of a patron stealing chips from a gaming table and fleeing the scene. Witnesses described Hunt as sitting at a table but not actively participating in the game. His suspicious behavior included frequent use of his phone and repeated absences from the table.

Hunt's alleged strategy reportedly involved:

• Creating a diversion by announcing that someone had won a substantial amount at another table.

• Reaching into the dealer’s tray and grabbing 13 orange chips, each valued at $1,000.

• Bolting from the casino through an emergency exit to avoid detection.

State Troopers and Everett police officers swiftly responded and located Hunt in a parking lot near the casino, situated on the Everett/Boston line. Upon his arrest, several stolen chips were recovered from his possession. Security footage further revealed:

• Hunt had dropped one of the chips during his escape.

• Two additional chips were found discarded from his sneaker outside the casino.

• The recovery effort ensured nearly all stolen chips were retrieved.

Hunt was subsequently taken to the State Police barracks in Medford for booking. Details regarding his hometown remain unknown, as disclosed by State Police spokesperson Tim McGuirk. The authorities have not yet provided information about his arraignment.

The incident underscores key points about casino security:

• Extensive surveillance systems allow casinos to track every movement on the floor.

• Close coordination between casino security and law enforcement enables swift arrests.

• The risks and legal consequences for theft in such monitored environments are severe.

This event highlights the vigilance of the Encore Boston Harbor’s security measures and the rapid law enforcement response that helped recover the stolen chips and apprehend the suspect.