Security in a Casino
A casino’s goal is to maximize its profit and attract high rollers. High rollers typically spend more than average and gamble in special rooms separate from the main casino floor. In addition to receiving bonuses and freebies, high rollers are also pampered with lavish personal attention. During the 1970s, Las Vegas casinos attracted high rollers by offering discount travel packages, free show tickets, and cheap buffets. This strategy allowed them to maximize their volume of customers. Increasing hotel occupancy and casino floor occupancy drove gambling revenue.
Keeping an eye on patrons is the first line of defense against petty crime in a casino. Security staffs keep an eye on each game and patrons throughout the casino. Dealers pay close attention to the game they’re working, so they are more likely to spot a cheater than a patron who isn’t. Other employees, such as table managers, watch the floor for suspicious behavior and watch out for betting patterns. Ultimately, each casino employee is overseen by a supervisor, who is responsible for the overall security of the casino.
In addition to the many different games, casinos have become increasingly technologically advanced. Video cameras and computers are routinely used to supervise the games in the casino. In addition, “chip tracking” involves the use of betting chips with built-in microcircuitry, which allows casinos to monitor the number of wagers minute-by-minute. In addition, roulette wheels are regularly monitored for statistical deviations, and enclosed versions of some games do not require dealers.