Former MGM National Harbor Dealer Indicted For Cheating: Officials

The former blackjack dealer is accused of letting players look at their cards before placing their bets, reports citing prosecutors said.

Jun 7, 2024 1:47 pm EDT | Updated Jun 7, 2024 1:52 pm EDT

OXON HILL, MD — A former blackjack dealer at MGM National Harbor is facing several charges after prosecutors said she helped players cheat, costing the casino more than $43,000, according to multiple reports citing the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office.

During a news conference Thursday, Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy said Jamie Smith, 31, engaged in the theft scheme between Oct. 2 and Oct. 8, 2023, WTOP reported.

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According to reports, Smith is accused of letting players at her table see cards before deciding what to bet. She then allowed them to change their bets afterward and also failed to collect on losing bets, reports said.

An MGM investigator discovered the scheme after reviewing surveillance camera footage, according to a DC News Now report. In all, Smith allegedly helped players get away with at least $43,253, reports said.

Braveboy said the scheme not only affects MGM but the state’s Education Trust Fund because Maryland casinos contribute to the fun that supports public schools.

“Stealing from MGM or any other casino is like stealing from our children,” she said, according to DC News Now’s report.

Smith was charged with theft scheme, embezzlement, several counts of theft and conspiracy to commit a theft scheme. She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.