Brief: Cheating bill approved by Senate

Now, all cheating in a casino is a felony punishable by two years in prison. The Senate bill would allow felony charges only for crimes involving more than $250. Others would be misdemeanors.

"The punishment ought to fit the crime," said Senate Judiciary Committee chairman Bennie Turner, D-West Point. "Taxpayers shouldn't have to pay $25,000 to house someone who stole $15."

He said some lawmakers from counties with legalized gambling requested the change that brings casino crimes in line with other larcenies.

The bill, approved without dissent, now goes to the House.

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