Philadelphia Casino Cheating Scam Ends With Five Arrests

A sophisticated cheating scheme involving a dealer and patrons at Live! Casino Philadelphia resulted in $170,000 in illicit gains, leading to multiple arrests and renewed scrutiny of casino security across Pennsylvania.

A detailed investigation revealed the coordinated actions between dealer Khai Ho and four patrons — Dong Liao, Jessica Yao, Hang Lin, and Van Tran — who manipulated outcomes in Baccarat and Pai Gow Tiles.

The cheating techniques included:

• Switching hands in Baccarat to fabricate player wins.

• Performing false shuffles in Pai Gow Tiles to maintain known tile sequences.

• Distributing profits through cash payments outside the casino.

Law enforcement actions:

• April 19: Arrests of Ho, Yao, and Liao at the casino.

• May: Arrests of Lin and Tran.

• All charged with felony theft and misdemeanor cheating.

Broader context and response:

• Live! Casino Philadelphia has not issued a public statement.

• Pennsylvania casinos, including Two Rivers Casino Pittsburgh and Mohegan Pennsylvania, have faced similar cheating incidents.

• These cases underscore the urgent need for stronger surveillance and anti-fraud measures.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in casino operations and the continued importance of enforcing rigorous security to maintain integrity within the gaming industry.