Hoffman and Fischer, Embezzlement, New Mexico 2011

ALBUQUERQUE – In a shocking case of greed and betrayal, former employee John Hoffman and his accomplice wife Michelle Fischer have pleaded guilty to embezzling money from the Santa Ana Star Casino in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

The scam, which ran from December 2010 to August 2011, saw Hoffman, 42, a former marketing employee of the casino, use his position to gain access to active and inactive ‘Player’s Club’ cards. He then added money and credits to the cards without proper basis or authority, giving them to Fischer knowing she would distribute them to others who would use the cards to gamble and give Hoffman and Fischer a percentage of their winnings.

Fischer, 42, also pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of theft from an Indian gaming establishment. In her plea, she admitted to obtaining ‘Player’s Club’ cards to which she was not entitled and giving them to others who used the cards to gamble with the understanding that Fischer would receive a percentage of their winnings. She also admitted to using some of the cards to gamble knowing she was not entitled to do so and for the purpose of obtaining a financial benefit.

According to the U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales, Hoffman faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, while Fischer faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison. Both defendants will be required to make restitution to Santa Ana Star Casino in the amount for which the Court determines each to be responsible.

The investigation was conducted by the Santa Ana Tribal Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle T. Nayback.

Hoffman and Fischer were released on conditions of release pending their sentencing hearings, which have yet to be scheduled.

This case highlights the severe consequences of embezzlement and the importance of accountability in the gaming industry. The Santa Ana Star Casino, operated by Santa Ana Pueblo, is a respected member of the gaming community, and this scandal is a reminder that no institution is immune to the threats of greed and corruption.

The defendants’ actions not only damaged the casino’s reputation but also compromised the trust of its customers. The fact that Hoffman and Fischer were able to carry out their scheme for so long is a testament to the need for strict controls and oversight in the gaming industry.

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