Lakeside sports book manager admits $20,000 theft from Stateline casino

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The manager of the Lakeside Inn and Casino race and sports book admitted in District Court on Tuesday that he stole $21,565 from the casino by cashing unpaid tickets.

Ronald Eugene Tipton, 43, of Carson City, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit grand theft.

He faces up to one year in Douglas County Jail and a $2,000 fine at his sentencing May 1.

His lawyer, William Cole, said the money has been repaid which was confirmed by prosecutor Tom Gregory.

"I did commit the offense," Tipton told District Judge Dave Gamble.

As the sports book manager, Tipton said he had access to a report about which unpaid tickets were about to expire.

"I would take those tickets and cash them," he said.

According to court documents, Tipton shredded the evidence.

Tipton said after spending three days in Douglas County Jail following his arrest in December, he agreed to pay the restitution and accept a lower charge in a plea agreement with the District Attorney's Office.

He is eligible for probation.

Tipton entered an Alford plea, which means he pleaded guilty to something he said he didn't do to avoid prosecution on a more serious offense.

Originally, he was charged with grand theft.

The thefts allegedly occurred from Oct. 24, 2005, through Feb. 22, 2006.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board assisted with the investigation.