Casinos protecting themselves in domestic violence cases

Phillies outfield Odubel Herrera made national news in 2019 when he was arrested for domestic abuse at Atlantic City’s Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino. He was charged with simple assault and quickly placed on administrative leave by the team as part of a Joint Domestic Violence Policy between Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association.

Those who visit Atlantic City quickly realize that there is a lot of unusual behavior in casinos and hotels. They will also note that security swiftly takes steps to defuse any situation involving aggressive behavior. This is both reduces exposure to a lawsuit and out of deference to their other customers. While a couple can separate or diffuse the situation in the privacy of their home, casinos and hotels will likely bring in law enforcement without much warning.

Often paired with gambling addiction

According to researchers, there is also a growing body of evidence that gambling addiction and domestic violence are intertwined. It can stem from arguments over money (a common theme for many marriages), particularly if a spouse recklessly gambles. These matters can escalate from arguments to abuse – physical, emotional or sexual – in a casino and hotel’s heated atmosphere.

Treat the problem instead of penalizing the actions

Some therapists are aware of these intertwined issues and how they impact the family unit. The two issues can create a downward spiral of a relationship that affects all parts of the family. It is also worth noting that some assume that gambler is the one charged, but sometimes it is the gambler coping with the relationship’s stress. In either case, treating the addiction and eliminating harmful behavior should be the goal for all involved.

Attorneys representing clients charged with domestic violence often need to point out that the situation is more complicated than a cut-and-dried case of abuse. Moreover, incarceration or criminal charges is not the answer when treatment of the gambling addiction, anger management classes or a batterer’s intervention program can help couples resolve the issues. While some judges are aware of this, others are less sympathetic. So, it is vital to have an attorney who can protect a client’s rights and ensure that the penalties are in the bests interests for all involved.