Casino Addiction Fuels Violent Crime Spree on French Riviera
A gambling addiction and dire financial circumstances appear to have driven a man to commit a series of violent crimes along the French Riviera. José Maria Lopes Monteiro, 47, was sentenced to four years in prison – with six months suspended – after admitting to two robberies and related fraud charges.
Investigators uncovered a pattern of escalating desperation, beginning with a significant financial strain and culminating in attacks on vulnerable individuals. The case highlights the devastating consequences of compulsive gambling and the need for comprehensive support systems for those struggling with addiction.
Mounting Debt and a Pattern of Risk
The investigation revealed that Monteiro assiduously frequented the Rhul casino on the Promenade des Anglais, allegedly spending nearly €15,000 over six months. This extravagant spending occurred despite a reported monthly salary of approximately €3,000 and the responsibility of providing for four dependent children. “This level of expenditure, given his income and family obligations, is deeply concerning,” a senior official stated. This financial imbalance appears to have fueled a dangerous cycle of chasing losses.
First Attack: Snatching and Fraud in August 2025
The first incident occurred on August 10, 2025, at the Rhul casino. A 76-year-old customer was jostled during a snatching, falling to the ground and sustaining injuries when her head struck the pavement. The attacker made off with cash and jewelry from her bag.
Monteiro subsequently sold the stolen loot to Crédit municipal for €4,200, an act that also resulted in prosecution for fraud. This initial crime suggests a calculated attempt to quickly convert stolen goods into cash, likely to continue his gambling habit.
Escalation to Violence: November Robbery and Arrest
The situation escalated dramatically on November 18, 2025. Monteiro followed a 59-year-old woman to her home and violently assaulted her, stealing her handbag. The victim’s identity document was found among Monteiro’s belongings, quickly linking him to the crime.
He was apprehended shortly after the attack at the Palais Méditerranée casino while attempting to exchange nearly €10,000 in cash – an amount corresponding to the stolen loot. This arrest effectively ended his brief crime spree.
Justice Served and Path to Recovery
After initially denying the charges, Monteiro ultimately confessed to both robberies and the associated fraud. He was sentenced to four years in prison, with six months suspended for a period of two years.
Beyond incarceration, the court imposed several conditions aimed at addressing the root cause of his criminal behavior. Monteiro is prohibited from frequenting casinos and is required to undergo addiction treatment, secure employment, and provide compensation to his victims. This holistic approach recognizes that addressing the underlying addiction is crucial for preventing future offenses.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of gambling addiction and the importance of providing support and resources to those struggling with this debilitating condition.
