Laws, Penalties, and What to Do If You’re Charged

Casinos are known for bright lights, high stakes, and serious security and being on casino property without permission in Missouri can land you in serious legal trouble.

Whether you were asked to leave and came back, stayed after being banned, or were mistakenly identified as trespassing, the charge is more serious than you might expect. Missouri law treats casino trespassing differently than simple property trespassing, and a conviction can lead to fines, jail time, and a criminal record that can follow you for life.

Here’s what you need to know about trespassing on casino property in Missouri, how it’s prosecuted, and how the experienced Kansas City trespassing defense attorneys at KC Defense Counsel can help protect your rights.

UNDERSTANDING TRESPASSING ON CASINO PROPERTY LAWS IN MISSOURI

Under RSMo 313.830, Missouri has strict rules regarding who is allowed to be on casino property. These rules are enforced by both private security and the Missouri Gaming Commission.

You can be charged with criminal trespass at a casino if:

You enter or remain on the premises after being excluded or banned
You are underage and attempt to access the gaming floor
You return to a casino while on the Missouri Statewide Exclusion List
You fail to leave casino property when ordered to do so by security or law enforcement

This applies to both the gaming floor and non-gaming areas of the casino, depending on the circumstances.

WHAT IS THE “EXCLUSION LIST”?

The Missouri Gaming Commission maintains a list of individuals who are barred from entering any state-licensed casino. Reasons someone might be added to the list include:

Being caught cheating or committing fraud
Causing disturbances or committing crimes on casino property
Repeated rules violations
Voluntarily placing yourself on the list (for problem gambling)

If you’re on the list and you enter any Missouri casino — even just to eat at the buffet or use the restroom…you can be arrested for trespassing.

TRESPASSING PENALTIES IN MISSOURI

Casino trespassing is typically charged as a criminal misdemeanor, but the severity depends on the facts of the case:

First-Degree Trespassing (RSMo § 569.140)

Knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully on property that is clearly restricted or after being verbally told to leave
Class B misdemeanor
Penalty: Up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine

Second-Degree Trespassing (RSMo § 569.150)

Entering property without authorization but without being previously banned or warned
Infraction or Class C misdemeanor
Penalty: Up to 15 days in jail and a $750 fine

In some cases, especially with repeat offenses or when alcohol or disorderly conduct is involved, casino trespassing may be charged alongside:

Disturbing the peace
Public intoxication
Disorderly conduct
Assault (if the situation escalates)

This can enhance the charges and increase the penalties.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE CHARGED WITH TRESPASSING AT A MISSOURI CASINO

Do NOT plead guilty or pay the fine without speaking to a lawyer. A conviction, even for a misdemeanor, can result in:

A criminal record that shows up on background checks
Difficulty with employment, housing, or security clearance
Immigration consequences (if you are not a U.S. citizen)
Bans from all Missouri casinos going forward

HOW KC DEFENSE COUNSEL CAN HELP A TRESPASSING CASE

At KC Defense Counsel, we understand that many casino trespass charges involve misunderstandings, mistaken identity, or overzealous enforcement. Our expert Kansas City criminal defense attorneys can:

Review the evidence and surveillance footage
Determine if you were lawfully banned or warned
Negotiate with prosecutors for dismissal or reduction of charges
Represent you in court appearances (you may not have to appear)
Help you avoid a criminal record through diversion or deferred prosecution

We’ve handled cases at casinos across Missouri, including Ameristar, Argosy, Harrah’s, and Hollywood Casino and know how to deal with casino security, local law enforcement, and state gaming regulators.

CHARGED WITH TRESPASSING AT A MISSOURI CASINO? — KC DEFENSE COUNSEL CAN HELP

Whether it was a mistake, a misunderstanding, or a bad night out, being charged with trespassing on casino property in Missouri is no small matter. But with the right legal process help, you can avoid jail time, protect your record, and move on with your life.

Call KC Defense Counsel today for a free consultation with one of our experienced and affordable Kansas City trespassing defense attorneys near me in Missouri. We’ll help you fight the charge and get back on track…without the high-stakes risk of going it alone.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland, Drexel, Fairview, Ferrelview, Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview, Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill, Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy, Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact us if your ticket is not on this list so our experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyers in Missouri can be of assistance.