Borgata Moves Towards High-Tech Chips After Poker Scam

Published on April 9, 2014 by Tom Jones

The business of poker tournaments has become a large one around the world, and with big money, usually comes individuals who need to scam their way into the cash. That was the case this past Winter when a North Carolina poker player was caught using fake chips at a big tournament in New Jersey.

The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa has responded to the chip scandal by introducing new tournament poker chips for upcoming events. The chips have a wide selection of color, and more importantly, have some way that the authentication of the chips may also be detected by use of an ultraviolet light.

"This was very expensive, but very necessary," said Borgata Senior Vice-President Joe Lupo. "WITH A PURPOSE TO have the largest tournaments in Atlantic City and because the market leader, we have to make sure the integrity of the games."

In the massive Stack, no-limit event that was held on the Borgata this past Winter, Christian Lusardi was arrested for using chips from outside of the casino throughout the tournament. Lusardi's alleged chip scam has make clear an industry that has become some of the most profitable within the world, and exemplified the will for increased security.

"In a few of these tournaments, players are walking away with millions of dollars," said Analyst Garret Brice. "And when that form of money is involved, there are always individuals and groups which can be seeking to gain an edge. I WOULD NOT be surprised to look more casinos going to this kind of security."

The tournament by which the counterfeit chips were found has yet to be completed. Play was halted on the Borgata and play will resume once a whole investigation into the fake chips has concluded. The tournament had reached the overall three tables. Previous to that, prize money had already been awarded to those that were knocked out of the tournament.

In addition to adding the brand new chips, the Borgata has taken several other measures to verify fair play during tournaments. Officials of the casino can be randomly checking chips within the day, ensuring in their authenticity. Additional security may also be hired and on duty for live tournament events inside the year.

Read More... [Source: Gambling News]