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Gambler Who Dropped Loaded Gun at Ameristar Craps Table Sentenced to Eight Years

By jili tutorial · October 9, 2026

Gambler Who Dropped Loaded Gun at Ameristar Craps Table Sentenced to Eight Years

A shocking incident at Ameristar Casino Kansas City in April 2024 has culminated in an eight-year federal prison sentence for David Lidge, a drug-impaired gambler who endangered patrons and employees by dropping and brandishing a loaded handgun. This case highlights the dangers of firearms in public spaces and the legal consequences of irresponsible behavior.

The Incident at Ameristar Casino

The Craps Table Drama

On April 14, 2024, while playing craps at Ameristar Casino in Clay County, Missouri, David Lidge inadvertently dropped a loaded 9mm handgun from his right pant leg. Witnesses reported that the gun fell onto the casino floor, causing immediate panic. Lidge, instead of securing the weapon, picked it up and began waving it erratically, pointing it at casino employees and other gamblers. His finger was reportedly on the trigger, escalating the potential for a tragic outcome.

Immediate Response

Casino security officers and Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers swiftly confronted Lidge near the King Side Circle Bar. Despite initial resistance, they managed to disarm and arrest him without injury. The gun was found to have a round in the chamber and eight more in the magazine, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Lidge’s Background and Arrest

PCP Consumption and Prior Convictions

During questioning, Lidge admitted to consuming PCP before visiting the casino, which likely contributed to his erratic behavior. Although no illegal drugs were found in his possession at the time, his wife confirmed his regular use of the substance. Additionally, Lidge had a prior felony conviction for possession of a controlled substance, which legally prohibited him from owning a firearm.

Plea Agreement and Subsequent Flight

In September 2025, Lidge reached a plea agreement with Clay County prosecutors, with sentencing scheduled for December of that year. However, he failed to comply with a court order, leading to an arrest warrant issued in October. When he missed his December sentencing hearing, another warrant was issued. By early 2026, Lidge was placed on Clay County’s Top 10 Most Wanted list.

Capture in Arizona

Lidge’s time as a fugitive ended on June 24, 2026, when members of the FBI’s PX Desert Hawk Fugitive Task Force, based in Arizona, arrested him in collaboration with the FBI’s Kansas City office. Initially held without bond in Maricopa County, Lidge waived extradition to Missouri to face sentencing.

The Sentencing

Eight-Year Federal Prison Term

On October 7, 2026, David Lidge was sentenced to eight years in federal prison for unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful use of a weapon. This sentence comes more than two and a half years after the incident, reflecting the legal process and Lidge’s evasion of justice.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with firearm possession. Lidge’s actions not only violated federal law but also endangered the lives of numerous individuals in a public setting. The swift response by law enforcement and casino security likely prevented a potential tragedy.

Conclusion

The incident at Ameristar Casino Kansas City underscores the critical importance of responsible behavior, especially in public spaces where the safety of many is at stake. David Lidge’s eight-year sentence highlights the serious legal consequences of reckless actions and the importance of adhering to firearm laws.