Online Gamer in New Jersey Blames Identity Theft for Escaping Financial Obligation
The story of a gambler exploiting an excuse to not pay off their debts is not particularly newsworthy, but this case from New Jersey's online casinos definitely stood out. Instead of the usual million-dollar stakes, this player used a unique tactic that wouldn't typically fly at a live venue.
A woman named Diana Zolla, aged 31 and from Jackson Township, is now facing charges of theft by deception. She's attempting to avoid paying off almost $10,000 in debt and banking fees from her time at the state's licensed online gambling sites.
Detection of Deception by Zolla
Investigators delved into Zolla's banking transactions, gaming records, and ISP information and came to the conclusion she had created the account and spent the $9,565 in question.
Zolla has since been released but is required to appear in Atlantic County Superior Court.
"Casino goers who gamble online may be enticed to falsely claim they're victims of identity theft to prevent debt payment," noted New Jersey State Police superintendent Colonel Rick Fuentes. "This criminal activity only escalates an already disappointing situation."
It's not easy to imagine something like this happening at a land-based casino. Perhaps a thief could withdraw and then use the money to play, but any effort to use credit in the venue would surely result in a clear image of the culprit.
The NJ Commissioner's Response
This is one of those cases that would be difficult to see happening in a brick-and-mortar casino. The attempt to use someone else's identity in a land-based casino, especially to gamble, would most likely end quickly due to cameras and other security measures.
Despite opposition from groups like the Coalition to Stop Internet Gambling, who argue that online casinos cannot adequately know who is using an account, New Jersey officials believe this case demonstrates their oversight capabilities.
"Suspicious transactions are meticulously investigated, and as this case reveals, efforts to cheat New Jersey casinos will not be tolerated," said Division of Gaming Enforcement director David Rebuck.
By March, over 291,625 online accounts had been created at New Jersey's Internet casinos. The popularity of online gaming has continued to increase, with a 17% rise in account creation between months, as reported by the Division of Gaming Enforcement.
Trust in the security of these gambling sites is crucial for ongoing growth, and Rebuck states the state remains focused on maintaining public confidence.
"The Division of Gaming Enforcement and the State Police collaborate to dissuade fraudulent activity, ensuring confidence in Internet gaming operations for all parties involved, including players, platform providers, and payment processors," Rebuck concluded.
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