The Legal Boundaries of Casino 86ing: Policies, Enforcement, and Restrictions

When individuals are 86ed from casinos in Reno, Nevada, and informed that they may be arrested for trespassing if they return, it raises the question: how long is this period legally enforceable? This article delves into the intricacies of casino policies, enforcement methods, and the legal boundaries surrounding the practice of 86ing.

Understanding 86ing in Casinos

When a casino 86s a patron, it means the individual is banned from the premises, often due to problematic behavior or breaches of conduct. The term '86' originated as a culinary term, meaning to remove something from a restaurant menu, but in the context of casinos, it signifies removal from the premises.

As an SEO expert, it's essential to note that 86ing is entirely within the discretion of the casino. Their policies can vary widely, and there is no legal statute regulating the duration of such bans. However, some casinos do provide a card or document to inform the individual of the specific policy.

The Reno Experience

During a government shutdown almost eight years ago, my husband worked as security at a local Reno casino. He is a former NHP Lieutenant, bringing significant NV law experience to the role. He explained that 86ing policies were not strictly defined by law but were left to the discretion of the casino. In the case of the casino he worked at, patrons given a 86 card retained a record of the incident and their photo was added to the '86d book'.

Legal and Enforcement Realities

Despite the lack of legal regulation, casinos have the authority to enforce bans severely. State Gaming Enforcement Officers (GEOs) are present in many casinos 24/7. These officers, employed by the state, have arrest powers equivalent to those of local police, county deputies, or state troopers. If a banned individual reappears, they can be immediately arrested and placed in the casino's holding cells, if available, until a uniformed officer takes them to the local jail.

Case Studies and Anecdotes

Personal experiences and anecdotes paint a vivid picture of the enforcement of 86ing policies. For instance, during my time in Reno, I was asked to leave two separate casinos on different occasions. However, these did not amount to being 86ed, and I was able to return with no issues. Conversely, individuals I knew who were banned faced harsher consequences. One individual was banned in 1990 or 1991 but later attempted to re-enter the Cal-Neva casino in the early 2000s after it had undergone renovations. He was recognized by security and arrested, a stark reminder of the casino's strict adherence to their policies.

Modern Casino Practices

As casinos evolve, so do their enforcement mechanisms. Many of the remaining casinos maintain extensive files and utilize facial recognition technology. This means that if a banned individual attempts to return, their behavior is likely to be noted, and they are unlikely to be allowed back unless they reach a resolution with the property, which is often difficult without substantial influence or wealth.

Conclusion

In summary, while there is no legal mandate governing the length of a 86ing period, casinos have significant power to enforce their bans. The practices of these establishments range from subtle reminders to severe legal actions, reflecting the complexity of maintaining order within the gambling industry. As the industry continues to evolve, so too will the methods by which casinos ensure the safety and compliance of their patrons.