Blackjack dealer admits to working with others to fleece Watertown casino

A blackjack dealer at Dakota Sioux Casino near Watertown has admitted his role in the theft of $10,000 from his then-employer.

Jeremy K. Brown, 42, pleaded guilty in federal court this month to a felony conspiracy charge. It involves a scheme in which he is alleged to have worked with others together to steal money from the casino Dec. 31, 2015, and Jan. 1, 2016.

Also charged are Jordan A. Rondell, 29; Lito B. Bolocon, 44; and Fern F. Gill, 52. According to court documents, Brown and Gill were blackjack dealers at the casino, Rondell was a card player and Bolocon was the pit boss supervising the blackjack gaming area. Brown was also part-time pit boss.

The allegation is that Brown and Gill payed Rondell for bets on losing hands. Bolocon is accused of knowingly allowing the payouts. Brown, Gill and Bolocon are accused of receiving a portion of the payouts, according to court documents.

The four were indicted in February.

In exchange for Brown's guilty pleas, a second charge of theft by an employee of a gaming establishment on Indian land and aiding and abetting will be dismissed.

Rondell, Bolocon and Gill have pleaded not guilty. Trial is set for July 24 in federal court in Aberdeen. Each is charged with felony conspiracy and felony theft by an employee of a gaming establishment on Indian land and aiding and abetting.

Brown's sentencing is Aug. 1. He faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. According to the plea agreement he signed, he will pay $2,000 in restitution.

Dakota Sioux Casino is 5 miles north of Watertown on the Lake Traverse Indian Reservation. It is operated by the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate.

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