The 5 Most Dangerous People Who Lived in Las Vegas

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The 5 Most Dangerous People Who Lived in Las VegasLas Vegas, famous for its glamorous casinos, neon-lit Strip, and vibrant nightlife, also has a darker side. Beneath its glitzy surface lies a history of powerful and dangerous figures who wielded influence, instilled fear, and shaped the city’s underworld. Here’s a look at five of the most dangerous individuals who once called Las Vegas home.

1. Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel:

No list of dangerous Las Vegas residents is complete without the legendary Bugsy Siegel. A notorious mobster affiliated with the New York Mafia, Siegel played a pivotal role in transforming Las Vegas from a sleepy desert town into a bustling entertainment hub. His vision led to the development of the Flamingo Hotel, one of the first major casinos on the Strip. While Siegel was celebrated for his charisma and charm, he was also known for his brutal methods of maintaining control. His mob connections and violent temper ultimately led to his assassination in 1947, a murder that remains unsolved.

2. Tony “The Ant” Spilotro:

Tony Spilotro was a feared enforcer for the Chicago Outfit and one of Las Vegas’s most notorious gangsters. Known for his violent nature and ruthless approach, Spilotro handled the mafia’s casino interests in Las Vegas, overseeing loan sharking, extortion, and skimming operations. Spilotro also ran a criminal group known as the “Hole in the Wall Gang,” notorious for robbing local businesses by breaking through walls. His life and crimes were famously portrayed by Joe Pesci in the movie Casino. Spilotro’s violent reign ended when he was killed in 1986, likely at the orders of mob bosses who had grown tired of his recklessness.

3. Frank Rosenthal:

Frank Rosenthal, or “Lefty,” was a genius when it came to sports betting and casino management, but his success was overshadowed by his close ties to organized crime. Although he was never formally part of the mafia, Rosenthal’s connections to mob bosses allowed him to control four Las Vegas casinos in the 1970s. Rosenthal was innovative, even introducing sports betting parlors within casinos. However, he often clashed with law enforcement and faced attempts on his life, including a notorious car bombing in 1982 that he survived. His story also inspired Robert De Niro’s character in Casino.

4. Marshall Caifano:

Marshall Caifano, a mob enforcer for the Chicago Outfit, was among the first to be dispatched by the mob to oversee interests in Las Vegas. Known for his ruthlessness, Caifano had a reputation for using intimidation and violence to keep others in line. He was often involved in the casino skimming operations that funneled profits back to mob families in Chicago. Caifano, who never officially resided in Las Vegas but spent substantial time there, was often suspected of orchestrating murders and extortion schemes. Despite multiple charges over the years, he managed to evade serious conviction and remained a powerful force in Vegas.

5. Herb “Fat Herbie” Blitzstein:

A long-time associate of Tony Spilotro, Herb Blitzstein was known for his involvement in Las Vegas’s underworld during the 1970s and ’80s. Blitzstein specialized in loan sharking, extortion, and insurance fraud. Even after Spilotro’s death, Blitzstein remained active in organized crime, eventually becoming a key target for rival gangs aiming to take over his lucrative operations. In 1997, Blitzstein was murdered in his Las Vegas home, allegedly by members of the Los Angeles and Buffalo crime families attempting to claim his territory.

Conclusion:

These five individuals played pivotal roles in the darker chapters of Las Vegas’s history. From mob enforcers to casino masterminds, their actions and influences left a lasting legacy on the city. While Las Vegas has since cleaned up its image, the tales of these dangerous men remain woven into the city’s complex tapestry, a reminder of the days when the mob ruled the Strip and power was won through fear and violence.

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Why the Negative Perception of Gambling Is Misguided

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Why the Negative Perception of Gambling Is MisguidedThe debate over gambling is often clouded by misconceptions and stigmas, painting it as a vice that inevitably leads to ruin. However, this perspective overlooks the many positive aspects of gambling. Let’s explore why the negative perception of gambling is wrong by delving into five key points that highlight its benefits and contributions to society.

1. Economic Benefits:

Gambling is a significant economic driver, contributing to local and national economies. The gambling industry generates substantial revenue through taxes, which can fund public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Casinos, lotteries, and online betting platforms create jobs, ranging from direct employment within the industry to ancillary roles in hospitality and tourism.

Job Creation: The gambling sector employs millions globally, offering a wide range of jobs from entry-level positions to executive roles.
Tourism Boost: Casinos and gambling destinations attract tourists, boosting local economies through spending on hotels, restaurants, and entertainment.

2. Entertainment Value:

For many, gambling is a form of entertainment and leisure, providing an enjoyable pastime that is no different from other recreational activities. The excitement of placing a bet, the strategy involved in games like poker, and the social interaction found in casinos or online platforms contribute to its appeal.

Social Experience: Gambling venues often offer vibrant social atmospheres where friends and family can gather.
Skill Development: Games like poker and blackjack require strategy and skill, making them intellectually stimulating and engaging.

3. Regulated and Safe Environment:

Modern gambling is highly regulated, with stringent measures in place to protect players and maintain integrity within the industry. Licensed gambling establishments must adhere to strict regulations designed to ensure fair play, prevent fraud, and protect vulnerable individuals.

Player Protection: Regulatory bodies enforce rules that safeguard against problem gambling and provide resources for those who need help.
Fair Play Assurance: Regulations ensure that games are fair and that players have access to transparent information about odds and payouts.

4. Charitable Contributions:

Many gambling operators contribute to charitable causes through donations and funding for community projects. Lotteries, in particular, are known for their support of various social programs and initiatives.

Funding for Good Causes: Lotteries and other gambling-related donations support education, health, and community development projects.

Corporate Social Responsibility: Many gambling companies engage in CSR activities, promoting responsible gambling and supporting local communities.

5. Technological Innovation:

The gambling industry drives technological advancements that benefit various sectors. Innovations in online gambling, blockchain for secure transactions, and mobile apps have applications beyond gambling, influencing fintech, cybersecurity, and user experience design.

Tech Integration: Online gambling platforms use cutting-edge technology to enhance user experience and security.
Cross-Sector Impact: Advances in gambling technology often spill over into other industries, driving innovation and improvement.

Conclusion:

Gambling, when approached responsibly, can offer significant benefits to individuals and society. From economic contributions and entertainment value to regulated safety and charitable support, the positive aspects of gambling are often overshadowed by negative perceptions. By recognizing the multifaceted nature of gambling and its contributions to modern life, we can foster a more balanced and informed view of this age-old pastime.

The next time you think about gambling, consider the broader picture beyond the stereotypes. Like any form of entertainment, it has its risks, but also its rewards, and with proper regulation and responsible participation, gambling can be a valuable part of our social and economic fabric.

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Dominic Loriggio: The person who Dominates the craps

The Person who dominates the craps

Being well-known can be challenging. especially given that he is considered one of history’s greatest gamblers. Dominic LoRiggio was prohibited from playing at many casinos as a result of his skill in in-game craps. Despite never having committed casino fraud. Many people find it difficult to overlook his success as a result. Let’s look at what he did to obtain his current title.

Short Bio of Dominic LoRiggio

The Dice Dominator and The Man with the Golden Arm are other names for Dominic LoRiggio. LoRiggio was raised in the US, where he went to school and worked as a secretary. But he made changes to his life and career, which made it possible for him to succeed at craps. He started his gambling profession as a card counter in the late 1980s. He then focuses on becoming an expert at the casino game of craps.

LoRiggio’s Method for Mastering Craps

In the 1990s, LoRiggio started to practice controlled shooting. He routinely won at craps thanks to his original playing style. Years of research and practice have gone into his approach. He eventually specialized in craps as a result. Because of his unique methodology and dice management strategies, LoRiggio has been successful at several casinos.

This casino gambler is a pro at using the dice. He became well-known in the gaming sector after amassing big winnings at Mississippi and Las Vegas casinos. Put his name on the list of insolvent players at the casino. He has never before violated a casino rule. He is telling the truth. Due to his dedication to his preparation, this great football player has unquestionably surpassed all expectations.

LoRiggio’s journey to success through gambling

LoRiggio joins the Rosebud gang. Before going to Las Vegas, they practiced their controlled shooting techniques. They established a solid reputation for themselves in Vegas, whilst LoRiggio established his name. One of the players who broke the casino’s banks was him. Many individuals believed it was impossible to manipulate dice to affect roll results. But LoRiggio stands out from the rest since his tactics enabled him to win from a modest wager. He then left the company in Las Vegas after that. He believed the organization to be conventional and unable to generate significant wealth. Since then, he has been practicing throwing dice, and he still does.

His strategies, hand tilt, roll force, and other restrictions all improved as a result. The dropped-out combination was then given even more scrutiny and research. He eventually mastered the art of rolling the dice to get the desired outcome. He perfected a precision combo shooting technique. Then, at the Last Vegas craps tables, he ran into Frank Scoblete. Frank also enjoyed writing and gambling. The methods were taught to Frank by LoRiggio. Together, they visited casinos. They managed the shooting together and afterward won tens of thousands of dollars at other casinos.

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The Scandal of Cheating That Shattered the Poker World

The Scandal of Cheating That Shattered the Poker World

Mike Postle

He had to hurry because he was late. Stones Gaming Hall is a small casino in Sacramento’s suburbs between Popeye’s and 80 Interstate. The 42-year-old man with the night face was immersed in a poker game there. September 21, 2019, the tournament attracted several elite players to the casino’s poker parlor, a dimly lit environment designed to resemble an Old West saloon. Stones was live-streaming the match on YouTube and Twitch. One businessman from Las Vegas had taken a chartered jet here with $50,000 in cash. Postle, though, was easily the night’s chip leader when he appeared on Stones’ live stream and was crushing the competition as usual.

After five hours of the show, an odd hand surfaced. Each player was dealt two cards face down (called “hole cards”) to begin the game, as is standard procedure in Texas Hold ‘Em, the most popular poker variant aired on television. The following three rounds of dealing five community cards face-up included betting opportunities. The flop is the first group of cards that are face up and consists of three cards. The dealer would then add one card (known as “the turn”), then another (“the river”). Each participant has two cards face down (their “hole cards”) and five cards face up (the “shared array”), and the goal is to make the best possible five-card hand utilizing these two types of cards.

However, seven out of the nine players folded before the flop. After receiving the queen of diamonds and the jack of hearts, Postle extended his hand. Marle Cordeiro, a Las Vegas professional with a large online following, was his only obstacle.

The flop brought Postle the spades 8, diamonds 9, and jack of diamonds. Postle now held a pair of jacks and needed only a ten to complete a straight flush (8–9-10-jack-queen). There was a requirement for two additional shared cards to be dealt with. When the 4 spades appeared on the turn, Cordeiro bet $600.

Of the nine players, seven folded before the flop even came. After receiving a queen of diamonds and a jack of hearts, Postle extended his hand. Only Marle Cordeiro, a specialist with a massive online following and a home base in Las Vegas, would stand in his way.

The flop gave Postle a pair of jacks and one ten short from a queen-high straight. Two paired cards remained. After the turn card was the fairly meaningless 4 of spades, Cordeiro made a $600 stake.

The best poker hand, known as “the nuts,” was held by Cordeiro, making Postle’s unusual surrender the correct play. After all of the cards were delivered, she had a 96% probability of keeping her advantage after she had a queen-high straight with the diamonds 10 and the queen of spades that she had been hiding before the river.

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The Most Vigorous Casino Cheaters Ever

The Most Vigorous Casino Cheaters Ever

Card counting is a strategy that is used in blackjack that is legal but is often frowned upon. Some of the most infamous casino cheats have earned millions of dollars using this strategy. Even while it’s not hard to pick up the routine, doing so can have significant repercussions.

None of the strategies that these cheaters used to defraud casinos were caught, and the majority of them were banned from casinos forever. On the bright side, an increasing number of individuals are now working together with casinos to improve safety measures, identify potential cheaters, and make the gaming industry a better place overall.

Richard Marcus

After struggling to make a living through legal gambling in Las Vegas, Richard Marcus found work as a blackjack and baccarat dealer. Marcus was able to watch how casinos operate from both sides and obtain a fresh viewpoint.

Marcus just needed that information to learn how to defraud casinos, and he used it to his advantage to make millions throughout his career. He used clear deceit as the basis of his fraud.

He would place a simple bet by piling two $5 red chips on top of a $500 brown chip. Marcus, on the other hand, laid out the stake so that the dealer thought it was just a $15 wager with three red chips.

If the wager paid off, Marcus would notify the dealer and receive more than $1,000. If he loses the bet, he will wait until the dealer turns away before exchanging the $510 in chips for $15.

Marcus’ straightforward fraud was successful for years before he was discovered, charged, and banned from casinos. Marcus, on the other hand, still acts as a role model for other cheaters today. The “World’s #1 Casino and Poker Cheating Expert,” Marcus, continue to help people through “education” by maintaining a website, blogging, and penning two books.

Dominic LoRiggio

Blackjack and craps were two games that LoRiggio also called “The Dominator” was a master at. After years of practice, frequently lasting for hours on end, LoRiggio mastered the art of “controlled shooting,” a strategy for acquiring the necessary rolls in a craps game when you need them. The strategy comprises holding the dice perfectly, tossing them so that they stay together in the air, and softly laying them down on the back wall of the craps table.

LoRiggio asserts that he can control two dice using only basic physics, contrary to the widespread belief that controlling just one dice is impossible.

Blackjack Team of MIT

The MIT blackjack team developed a technique in the 1990s that employed statistical strategies to advance the discipline of card counting to a new level, making them the most well-known individuals on this list. They practiced in various situations as they collectively approached card counting.

The outcome? One of the most well-known casino fraudsters in history, made famous by the movie 21.

Ron Harris

To make sure that only state-approved computer chips were being utilized, Harris, a computer technician, was responsible for inspecting and testing slot machines throughout Nevada. Undoubtedly, he was more complex than that. Harris obtained access to Bally’s programming for their keno machine’s random number generator using his knowledge of casino games, and he then utilized his computer equipment to simulate the computations carried out by the actual machine.

After using inside knowledge to win $100,000 at Bally’s in New Jersey against 1,000,000-1 odds, his accomplice was caught. Naturally, Harris was fired from his position. Oops.

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