Gambling City Forums

Poker Pro Ivey Did Cheat to Win $12.4 Million, Judge Rules. Summary of the Report here - the thing is: he did cheat or Court was bribed?

As I understand, the cards had flaws (not well washed, bended etc - this is casino's fault) and Ivey spotted this thing and learned to recognize the cards face down while watching / playing baccarat. Ivey then asked the dealer for a deal: he starts betting serious money if the dealer would release the cards to "player" and respectively "banker" as he dictates, and not by the standard procedure. (The house edge remains the same if you don't know what card is coming next.) The deal was accepted (it had to be approved by at least a Pit Boss).

Then Ivey played like he had all cards face up and "killed" the casino for $12,4M. -Where was the cheat? -What is your opinion on this?

My opinion is that this situation is equal like if I'd go into a casino and ask a blackjack dealer to hit until 18 or bust (instead of the standard rule of hitting to 17 or bust) in order for me to bet bet the maximum allowed all the way until I go broke or make $1M. If I win, casino pays!

As for the cards not being taken care of by the casino, this is equal with a non experienced "flashy" dealer. The sharp eyed player will win!