Attorney General Michelle Henry, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania State Police, announced charges against a Bethlehem man accused of altering video gambling vouchers to inflate winnings and cashing them at various locations across eastern Pennsylvania.
Anthony M. Diehl, 31, was arrested earlier this week by the Pennsylvania State Police. He faces charges including felony corrupt organizations and related theft offenses. Diehl's bail has been set at $100,000 unsecured.
Diehl is alleged to have used chemicals and printers to alter vouchers, increasing their value before cashing them primarily at convenience stores and gas stations. It is claimed that he either cashed these vouchers himself or recruited individuals in need of money to do so on his behalf.
Authorities allege that Diehl made thousands of dollars through this scheme across multiple counties. During the investigation, police discovered more than 100 altered vouchers on one of Diehl’s computers.
“This defendant is charged with an elaborate scheme to take advantage of unregulated video gambling devices by inflating winnings to significant sums,” stated Attorney General Henry. “He was predatory in his criminal operation, as well, recruiting vulnerable people to cash the altered tickets and return the profits to him.”
Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, emphasized their commitment: “The Pennsylvania State Police is committed to putting a stop to fraudulent schemes and the criminals behind them. This arrest was the result of hard work and cooperation between PSP and the PA Attorney General’s Office.”
The investigation continues as authorities believe that the redeemed vouchers involved combined payouts exceeding $20,000. The case is being prosecuted by the Office of Attorney General’s Organized Crime/Financial Crimes Sections. All charges remain accusations until proven otherwise in court.