If you’re a regular at your local casino, you’ve probably witnessed a fair share of fights. Even though casinos are supposed to be places of entertainment and chance, the tension can easily turn the establishment into a battleground.
Tempers can flare after a string of bad luck or suspicions that some players might be cheating the games. So, what happens if you find yourself in a fight at a casino in Oklahoma? Buckle up, because legal trouble can come from multiple directions.
Casino security and tribal law
Since Oklahoma casinos are operated by Native American tribes, they are under tribal sovereignty. For this reason, security at these establishments enforces tribal law alongside state laws. You’ve probably witnessed casino security detaining or removing patrons from the premises for fighting.
It’s crucial to note that casino security personnel have the authority to enforce tribal law even in the absence of law enforcement officials. Essentially, tribal authorities may choose to press charges under tribal law, which can result in fines or even jail time.
The Sooner State and potential charges
Even if tribal authorities don’t pursue charges, your actions could still land you in hot water with the state’s laws. For instance, you can be charged with an assault offense for consciously attempting to hurt another patron at the casino.
The charges can escalate to battery if you actually cause significant harm to another person through willful violence. You may have to defend yourself against misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the extent of physical harm your victim sustains.
For instance, a simple fistfight due to allegations of cheating in the games might be classified as a misdemeanor. However, if you decide to use a deadly weapon and cause your victim substantial injuries, you might have to defend yourself against a felony.
The establishment can also accuse you of disorderly conduct because fights can significantly compromise the operation of a casino. You’ve probably witnessed an establishment come to a standstill because a patron decided to hurl a beer bottle at the head of their victim.
While you might understand that fighting at a casino is a bad idea, things happen. Should you find yourself in this predicament, you can benefit from personalized legal guidance. A trusted legal group can help get you out of legal trouble if you’re unexpectedly in hot water.