Minnesota Man Sentenced as Mastermind Behind Casino Robbery

Overview of the Incident

A man from Minnesota was recently sentenced to prison for orchestrating a robbery involving a casino patron in 2023. Although he did not directly commit the robbery, authorities identified him as the key planner behind the crime.

The Casino Robbery Attack

In December 2023, a 68-year-old casino winner, whose identity remains confidential for safety reasons, hit a $38,000 jackpot at Treasure Island Casino in Welch, Minnesota. What could have been a joyous occasion quickly turned into a distressing experience for the man.

After leaving the casino in the early hours of December 10, the victim realized he was being followed by Philip Williams Davids, an acquaintance from the casino. The victim briefly hid in a bathroom to evade him.

Later that morning, as the victim was heading home, two men exited a red pickup truck and attacked him, demanding money. The victim’s girlfriend attempted to intervene but was threatened with a firearm during the altercation.

Chasing the Robbers and Police Intervention

Fortunately, the victim managed to get into his car and pursue the assailants while contacting the police. This pursuit led to the arrest of the two attackers, identified as Shawn Eric Lewis Jr. and Tristin Tyler Jacox-Mann. The driver of the red truck, Deangelo Romaine Jacox, was also apprehended.

The victim’s earlier report of being followed was crucial in solving the case. Authorities examined Davids’ phone and found several calls to Shawn Eric Lewis Sr., identifying him as connected to the robbery. Surveillance footage also showed Lewis Sr. trailing the victim and the pickup truck, confirming his involvement.

Though Lewis Sr. did not physically participate in the assault, officials determined he orchestrated the entire robbery.

Nick Hydukovich, head of the Washington County Attorney’s criminal division, explained that Lewis Sr. played a key role by monitoring the victim’s movements, evaluating the situation, and coordinating the actions of the other men involved.

Legal Consequences and Background of the Mastermind

Shawn Eric Lewis Sr. pleaded guilty to charges related to first-degree aggravated robbery and received a sentence of five and a half years in prison. His son, Shawn Eric Lewis Jr., was also sentenced.

Authorities noted that Lewis Sr. has a criminal history involving previous robberies and had served time in prison for similar offenses.

Sentencing for the other participants involved in the 2023 robbery is expected to take place soon.