Key Takeaways:
- Illinois gambling venues reported 473 burglaries in 2025, resulting in $2.7 million in losses
- Smash-and-grab crews target ATMs, redemption kiosks, and gambling terminals in quick, destructive raids
- The Illinois Gaming Board has issued guidance to help businesses enhance security measures
Burglary Epidemic Sweeps Through Illinois Gambling Venues
Video gambling establishments across Illinois are facing an alarming surge in burglaries, with the Illinois Gaming Board reporting 473 break-ins at gambling venues in 2025. These incidents have caused more than $2.7 million in losses, marking a significant increase from the 358 burglaries and $1.9 million stolen in 2024.
The break-ins follow a consistent pattern: late-night raids characterized by rapid entry, heavy tools, and crews working quickly to escape before law enforcement arrives. Surveillance footage from a recent incident in Bedford Park captured burglars using a sledgehammer to batter the front entrance before climbing inside and damaging machines, all within minutes.
Targets and Damage
Burglars primarily focus on three lucrative targets within gambling establishments:
1. ATMs
2. Redemption kiosks used for cashing out winnings
3. The gambling terminals themselves
These targets are typically broken into using crude methods like pry bars and sledgehammers. Beyond the stolen cash, venue owners face substantial costs from damaged infrastructure and equipment. Some locations have begun installing enhanced physical barriers, such as metal shields over entrances, further increasing operational expenses.
Law Enforcement Challenges
Police departments across Illinois are struggling to combat these organized crews. Some pursuits have become dangerous, with officers occasionally forced to abandon chases when fleeing vehicles create excessive risk on local roads.
“It’s a growing problem,” said Bensenville Police Chief Bradley Swanson, while Chicago Ridge Police Chief Jim Jarolimek noted that the crews are well-organized and typically complete their robberies in just minutes.
Regulatory Response to Gambling Venue Security
The Illinois Gaming Board has taken steps to address the burglary trend by providing guidance to gambling businesses on enhancing security without violating regulations about improper inducements.
In a memo released last week, IGB Administrator Marcus D. Fruchter acknowledged the agency has received inquiries from licensed terminal operators about the burglaries. He clarified that current rules allow operators to provide certain security measures including surveillance systems, alarms, and ID scanners, provided they don’t constitute permanent construction.
Fruchter reminded licensees of their obligation to report criminal incidents affecting gaming operations and noted that the IGB is working with various law enforcement agencies: “The IGB is coordinating with local and state police, state’s attorneys, and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office to support investigations and prosecutions connected to the burglaries.”
As this crime wave continues, gambling venue operators face the dual challenge of protecting their assets while maintaining compliance with state regulations governing the video gambling industry.
I remember the first time I saw Kai Tak, Hong Kong’s gambling city, I thought I was in a fairy tale. All the lights blinking, the music and the monumental buildings, what 9-year-old wouldn’t think they’ve come to a magical place? It was my father who brought me, dragging me along and when inside I was hit by the smell of frying duck. As soon as I hit 21 I returned to Kai Tak, A bit nervous to see if my mind had embellished the memory, but it hadn’t. Kai Tak was still a magical place. I decided I wanted to spend as much time as I could at this place, so I did.
