Security Guard At Texas Poker Room Accused Of Robbing PlayerVictim Recovers From Life-Threatening Injuries |
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A poker player who was robbed and shot outside one of Texas’ social poker clubs has recovered, as the suspects are now behind bars.
According to a report Tuesday from kxan.com, Jermaine Patrick Spirlark, 41, and Charles Clines-Martinez, 24, have been charged with aggravated robbery for the incident that happened in the early morning hours on April 30. The alleged crime happened outside of the Texas Card House, which is located in northwest Austin. The poker room is one of many in the state that have popped up in recent years thanks to a loophole that allows them to charge various fees rather than take a traditional rake.
Clines-Martinez reportedly was employed as a security guard.
Police say that the victim, now known to be 22-year-old poker player Tom Steinbach, left the poker room with another person and Spirlark soon approached them to rob them at gunpoint. Per police, Steinbach fled, and Spirlark shot him. Spirlark allegedly fled the scene soon thereafter. Steinbach’s injuries were at first considered life-threatening, but fortunately there were able to be treated.
It’s unclear what role Clines-Martinez allegedly played in the incident, but authorities alleged he was working with Spirlark to commit a robbery