Two Men Deny Casino Poker Scam Charges in San Diego County
San Diego Men Accused of Poker Cheating Using Marked Cards
Two men face felony charges for allegedly running a poker cheating scheme at two casinos in North County. Prosecutors claim the pair used marked cards to unlawfully win more than $30,000, but both men have pleaded not guilty to the accusations.
Details of the Fraudulent Scheme and Court Proceedings
Vaagn Galustyan, 52, and Armin Martirosyan, 53, appeared in San Diego County Superior Court on September 30 for their arraignment. They each face two felony counts of conspiracy to commit a crime. If convicted, the men could serve up to three years and eight months in state prison.
The District Attorney’s Office revealed the cheating method involved marking high-value cards—such as tens, face cards, and aces—by folding the corners slightly. This allowed the conspirators and an unidentified accomplice to identify these cards later during play. By knowing these cards in advance, they could predict the dealer’s hand and adjust their bets accordingly.
Incidents at Pala Casino Spa Resort and Harrah’s Resort
The first incident reportedly occurred at Pala Casino Spa Resort, where the accused joined a Mississippi Stud Poker table. Surveillance footage captured them frequently touching and bending marked cards. After winning over $19,000, casino staff closed the table, and the men were asked to leave. However, they returned several hours later in different clothing and cashed some chips at various cashier stations, presumably to avoid detection.
A week later, similar tactics were allegedly used at Harrah’s Resort Southern California in Valley Center, where they gained an additional $13,410. Altogether, the men are suspected of cheating out a total of $32,660 through this scheme.
Importance of Collaboration with Tribal Casinos and Future Court Dates
District Attorney Summer Stephan highlighted that although card marking has long been a cheating tactic, modern surveillance technology has made it easier to catch offenders. She also emphasized the critical role of cooperation with tribal governments, which operate casinos on reservation lands. This partnership was vital to advancing the case.
The accused remain free on bail awaiting trial, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for January 15. Prosecutors plan to present additional evidence at that time. Authorities are still searching for the third individual believed to have been involved.
While Galustyan and Martirosyan deny all allegations, this case demonstrates the ongoing challenges casinos face from classic cheating methods. Tribal casino operators continue to enhance their surveillance systems to better detect and prevent such fraudulent activities.
