From Video Lottery Terminals to Violence: 71-Year-Old Man Who Won Big at Jake’s 58 Assaulted in Parking Lot by 24-Year-Old

A 71-year-old man became the target of a robbery outside Jake’s 58 Casino Hotel in Islandia, New York, after reportedly having a successful run at one of the video lottery terminals (VLTs). The incident took place in broad daylight, resulting in a quick response from local authorities.

Incident Details

• Location: Jake’s 58 Casino Hotel
• Date: September 6, 2025
• Initial Report: Police received a call regarding an aggravated robbery around 3:40 PM.
• Suspect: Aaron Hayes, 24, from Port Jefferson Station, was apprehended shortly after.

Eyewitnesses reported that after leaving the casino, the robber reached into the victim’s pockets before fleeing with a minimal amount of cash. However, after realising just how little was taken—approximately $30—Hayes returned, attacking the elderly gentleman. Fortunately, two bystanders intervened, leading to the suspect’s retreat.

Legal Proceedings

Following an investigation by the Suffolk County Police Department, Hayes was located and arrested. He now faces charges of third-degree robbery. This is categorized as the lowest level of robbery charge within New York, applicable for incidents that do not involve a weapon or accomplices, nor result in physical injuries. Remarkably, despite the assault, the victim was unharmed.

The suspect is expected to appear in Suffolk County District Court shortly. First-time offenders in a third-degree robbery case typically receive probation rather than prison time, especially if they have no prior convictions.

Jake’s 58 Casino Response

Officials from Jake’s 58 Casino, which is operated by Suffolk Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation, expressed their commitment to patron safety:

“The safety of our patrons is our highest priority. Our security team was pleased to assist the authorities in making a swift arrest, and we will continue to work closely with law enforcement during this investigation,” stated Phil Boyle, President of Suffolk OTB.

Future Plans for Jake’s 58 Casino

In light of the incident, the casino continues to focus on its expansion plans. Jake’s 58 is not pursuing a downstate New York casino license that would introduce more traditional gaming like live-dealer table games. Instead, the casino is undergoing a significant $210 million expansion which will double its number of gaming machines from 1,000 to 2,000. This project will include:

• Renovation of all 210 hotel guest rooms
• A new parking structure
• Sound barriers to ease residential concerns
• A 3,500-square-foot events center
• A 200-seat food court
• A 17,500-square-foot VIP lounge

Once completed, Jake’s 58 will maintain its status as an adults-only property, and the expansion is anticipated to be finished by next year.

Summary

The recent robbery incident outside Jake’s 58 Casino highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining safety in entertainment venues. However, the swift action of local law enforcement and the commitment of casino management to improve patron safety demonstrate a positive response to addressing such issues. With expansive developments on the horizon, Jake’s 58 Casino is set to continue as a key player in the gaming industry.