California man sentenced in Bellagio robbery attempt

A 25-year-old California man was sentenced Wednesday to two to five years in prison in the brazen but botched heist attempt at the Bellagio casino in May.

Michael Belton in July pleaded guilty to robbery and conspiracy after reaching a deal with prosecutors. As part of the plea deal, prosecutors agreed to drop one count of burglary against Belton.

Belton was one of three men in a conspiracy to rob the Bellagio of high-value gaming chips. The attempt was foiled by quick-thinking casino employees.

The two other suspects are still at large.

According to a Las Vegas police report, Belton and a second man, known only as "Carlos," were wearing black wigs and sunglasses and wielding a can of pepper spray when they entered the high-stakes blackjack area about 10:45 p.m. May 19.

"Carlos" sprayed the table as Belton snatched 23 $5,000 chips, worth $115,000, according to the report.

Three people tackled Belton, spilling the chips onto the floor. "Carlos" escaped.

Belton, of Nuevo, Calif., told detectives he attempted the robbery because he was broke and his grandparents were sick.

Contact reporter Francis McCabe at fmccabe@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-1039.