Central California Casino Shut Down by Federal Judge

Following an armed struggle between different groups of people, Central California has been ordered to shut down by a federal judge.



US District Judge Lawrence J. O’Neill gave out the order last Friday for the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino to cease operations temporarily after it emerged that different tribal factions were involved in a serious armed standoff. With regard to US gambling laws, the Judge stated the gaming establishment may have infringed a law it had with the state of California.



The case is yet to reveal if the tribe that operates the popular casino crossed any lines when it comes to endangering public health and safety. Currently a hearing is on the agenda which will decide the imminent fate of the casino. Wednesday has been set as the date when the court will conclude what actions to do next and how to proceed with the casino.

Tribal disputes happened before as well

According to gambling news, there were over 12 people who were carrying guns and bulletproof vests with them on Thursday night. Many customers in the casino were quickly evacuated while the employees were left stranded in the casino for hours before the situation was resolved.



The armed group that barged in the casino represent the legitimate leadership of Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians tribe from Madera County. This is not the first case which involved a tribal dispute as some other previous events in 2012 led to 100 sheriff’s deputies going on alert while two people were hospitalize with stab wounds.