Crime & Safety
Alleged Card Cheats Land Turkish Men in Jail
Men were allegedly caught trading cards by surveillance video at Sands Casino.
Two men – one from Turkey and the other with apparent Turkish roots living in England – illegally won $1,300 by switching cards during games of three-card poker at the in South Bethlehem, according to court records.
Sadullah Ozkurt, 46, of Istanbul and Ozgur Aytekin, 36, of Enfield, England – a borough of London -- were observed Thursday night by casino surveillance operators switching cards on three occasions, allowing them to win $1,300, the records say.
The charges were filed by state police Trooper Michael Gasparetti of the Sands Bethlehem gaming office. The incidents occurred between 7:50pm and 8:30pm.
Aytekin, who was born in Turkey, spoke some English, but authorities are recommending that a Turkish interpreter be used in further proceedings, the records say. Ozkurt spoke very little English and needs a Turkish interpreter.
The men were arraigned today (Friday) by on-duty District Judge John Capobianco of Nazareth on charges of prohibited acts, theft by deception and two counts each of criminal conspiracy.
Both were taken to Northampton County Prison after failing to post bail, which was set at $15,000 each.
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