Trial starts in ‘Thunder From Down Under’ robbery

Burly performers from the Strip are expected in court this week, as opening statements begin Tuesday in the trial of a man accused of trying to rob and attack the cast and crew of “Thunder From Down Under,” the male revue at Excalibur.

Before jury selection started Monday, prosecutors dropped eight of 17 charges against 24-year-old Joey Kadmiri, who authorities said dressed like one of the dancers and snuck backstage in an attempt to steal costumes and makeup.

The felony charges that Kadmiri faces include burglary, robbery with the use of a deadly weapon, battery with the use of a deadly weapon, battery with the use of a deadly weapon resulting in substantial bodily harm, possession of a controlled substance and firearm charges.

Donning a SWAT hat and a firefighter shirt in March, the 24-year-old pulled out a .44-caliber Magnum and tried to shoot a “Thunder” employee after several dancers from the show confronted him when they saw he had their belongings, Las Vegas police said.

Another person shoved Kadmiri’s arm as he fired and a bullet hit a wall. While nobody was shot, the powder burned one person after the gun fired.

A group of performers tackled Kadmiri, roughed him up, and held him down until security arrived. Police said they believed Kadmiri was under the influence of methamphetamine when he was arrested.

Witnesses are expected to take the stand Tuesday shortly after opening statements, which are slated for 10 a.m.

Court records indicate Kadmiri has a history of arrests on felony charges dating back to 2010. He also faces domestic violence, robbery and kidnapping charges in connection with an incident in November.

The trial could last a couple of days.

Contact reporter David Ferrara at dferrara@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-1039. Find him on Twitter: @randompoker.