Vegas Sees More Crime Ahead of Super Bowl

Las Vegas has seen several new high-profile crimes as it prepares to host Super Bowl 58. Authorities apprehended a couple who racked up an impressive quantity of stolen goods, while a man suspected of stabbing several people pleaded guilty in court. A previous report by law enforcement highlighted that police remain vigilant and prioritize the safety of tourists.

Theft Remains a Common Crime in Vegas
In the newest case of casino-related crime, V.H. and L.M., a married couple, are the primary suspects in a series of thefts throughout Las Vegas that totaled hundreds of thousands of dollars in value. The thefts targeted several individuals, including well-known singer Jason Derulo, who lost over $300,000 in jewelry, watches, and cash during a performance at Area15.

According to a recent report by local news outlet KLAS, the suspects were even brave enough to break into Derulo’s locker room. On the same day, other thefts occurred involving high-end video equipment at Mandalay Bay and Aria Resort & Casino. One of the stolen bags had an Apple AirTag inside, allowing police to track it.

Surveillance footage identified H. and M. as the suspects in these thefts, leading to their arrest. The investigation uncovered additional stolen items. H. was released on bond, while active warrants remain against M.’s arrest. Police believe additional suspects may be at large, although authorities have disclosed no other names.

Attempted Murder Leads to Decades Behind Bars
KLAS also reported an update regarding a previous high-profile crime, with 25-year-old S.S. pleading guilty to three counts of attempted murder after a violent outburst at Red Rock Resort back in August. S. stabbed two employees before getting shot by a casino security officer in the middle of the casino floor.

S. survived the shooting and later submitted an Alford plea in court, meaning he did not explicitly plead guilty but recognized the irrefutable evidence against him. He is due to be sentenced on 26 November as prosecutors insist on a sentence of at least 20 years with the possibility of parole.

Recently released FBI data revealed that Vegas crime rose slightly in 2023, with a 1.4% increase in total offenses. Homicides notably decreased by about 12%, but drug-related crimes spiked dramatically. Narcotics and drug offenses were up 10%, with 9,863 cases in 2023. The recent incidents highlight the ongoing efforts of authorities to protect locals and tourists ahead of the Super Bowl.