NCJ Number
95542
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 53 Issue: 9 Dated: (September 1984) Pages: 1-6
Date Published
1984
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Police can use a few simple steps to help control carnival fraud.
Abstract
With both the razzle-dazzle schemes and operator-controlled carnival games, arrest and prosecution are often successful when pursued, since the game itself is sufficient evidence to ensure conviction. The method of deception and wager escalation is a physical part of the gameboards, charts, scoresheets, and devices used in the games. These games contain what is called a gaff, a method or device built into the game to escalate the wager and decide the outcome. Two games commonly used to defraud players are spot and spot and the coke roll game. To control fraud, law enforcement officials should learn about the games and carnival fraud techniques. Officials should make sure the carnival operators know the local ordinances when they sign a contract to operate. The carnival should be required to post a complete set of rules of play on every game front. Foul lines should be prohibited. Undercover operations should be carried out to determine compliance. If violations occur, police should make arrests. Citizen complaints should also be followed up. Six footnotes are provided.