It is not uncommon, though not a usual occurrence, for a patron to bring a gun to a casino for a robbery attempt or violence.Ĭasinos have been robbed at gunpoint before, and metal detectors would have kept that from happening. It makes sense in general to have metal detectors installed in casinos, especially in higher crime areas. It would be a bit inconvenient to have to be rechecked, but the process is not time consuming. Most casinos in the Pennsylvania allow smoking, but the Rivers venue is maintaining its ban due to continued COVID-19 precautions. They were a bit unhappy about having to leave to smoke then go through the metal detector again upon reentry. Most of the complaints stemmed from patrons who are smokers. General Manager Justin Moore spoke about the installation during the meeting stating that around 80% of the comments regarding the metal detectors from patrons are positive. It stops a bad guy from coming to the casino and that is worth the extra effort. Officials said no that it was feedback from guests on safety that led to the installation.īasically, the casino operator said that the metal detectors are a proactive measure. Chairwoman Denise Smyler asked the casino operator if certain incidents were the reason the decision was made. Officials were happy with the installation as an added security measure, but curious as to why Rivers would go the extra step. So, the Board was surprised to find that the machines had been added at Rivers. Weapons checks are standard in venues like government facilities or stadiums, but not casinos. These checks include age verification and ensuring that patrons are not on any exclusion lists in Pennsylvania. Surprising News to OfficialsĪll 16 casinos in the state must have security checks at its entry points. The casino announced to officials that metal detectors had been installed two months prior to ensure a safe gaming environment for guests.

Everyone expected that the hearing would result in a license renewal, but there was one surprise attendees were not expecting. Officials of the property met with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to discuss its services and hope for a positive outcome. This week, the Rivers Casino Philadelphia took part in a standard license renewal hearing.

The new devices were added to the casino in February.

Weapon checks are not common occurrences in casinos.

Officials seemed surprised to find the venue had added the detectors.

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