A bingo player has been charged for stealing almost half a million dollars from her former employer, apparently to support her bingo, pull tabs and casino habits. The woman, who comes from the town of Maplewood in Illinois, US, allegedly stole $527,000 between 22nd November 2002 and 10th September 2009, her last day at work.

An internal investigation found that the suspect was able to steal money by shorting cash receipts from one customer on a deposit ticket, and then hiding it by using a cheque from another customer.

Roseville police recognised the suspect as a frequent customer at a local bingo hall, who plays pull tabs and bingo on a regular basis. When police searched her home, they found evidence that she also frequents casinos – a factor that may have been a possible motive for the stolen money.

While most players are able to enjoy gambling, a select few have problems. Gambling addiction can lead to desperate measures such as stealing, fraud and other criminal offences. If you suspect that someone you know has a problem playing bingo responsibly, contact a gambling support group immediately.