Casino Security Measures

In an era of over-the-top violence in films, Martin Scorsese’s Casino takes it to an artfully realistic level. Despite the fact that many of the scenes depicting torture, beatings, and murder (including an attempt on De Niro’s life) are actually true to the facts, they do not come across as overly graphic or gratuitous. They are merely a reflection of the violence that is endemic in many casinos, and a true part of their history.

The casino industry is a huge and lucrative business. The best casinos offer a variety of games, fair payouts and efficient customer service. They also feature top-notch hotels, spas, restaurants and other amenities.

Something about gambling encourages people to cheat and steal, either in collusion with others or on their own. For that reason, casinos spend a lot of time and money on security measures. These include a large number of cameras throughout the property, special tables that require special identification to play and electronic surveillance systems.

Some casinos have catwalks in the ceiling that allow security personnel to look directly down on the activities of patrons at table games and slot machines through one-way glass. In addition, many casinos have elaborate surveillance systems that allow security personnel to see every table, window and doorway at once. They can even adjust the cameras to focus on suspicious patrons. This is especially useful when trying to spot someone stealing or cheating. These systems are often wired to a central security room, where statistical deviations can be spotted quickly and easily.