The investigation that led to a casino supervisor, dealer and patron of the Horseshoe Casino in Council Bluffs being charged with conspiring to cheat at roulette and split thousands of dollars illegally obtained winnings began in March, according to authorities.

More than $20,000 in illicit winnings were obtained by the trio that authorities believe worked together to maneuver chips to winning numbers, along with placing wagers for guests and accepting late bets, according to local news sources. It is thought that the trio carried out the cheating scheme at the Iowa casino on several occasions during the months of February and March.

Charged in the scheme were Jonathan Rumery, 28, of Omaha, along with 28-year-old Cody Schroeder, and 24-year-old Jonathan Waugh, who both reside in Council Bluffs. Rummery and Schroeder were both charged with first-degree theft, ongoing criminal conduct, conspiracy to commit a non-forcible felony, and cheating or altering the outcome of the game. Waugh was charged with the latter offense only.

The cheating scheme was noticed by a player who notified casino management at which time the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation was alerted.

The Horseshoe Casino is owned by Caesars Entertainment Corp. (NASDAQ: CZR), which announced in May that it had appointed retired bankruptcy judge Robert Gerber to the newly created position of chief restructuring officer. The announcement came on the heels of the warning by the parent company that it may be forced into Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the face of billions of dollars in creditor claims that stem from the company’s failed operating unit (CEOC).