Menu Close

Insurance broker James William Riley, 50, of Murrieta is facing 16 months in prison for multiple felony counts involving theft and embezzlement of over $172,000 from Casino Pauma.

According to investigators, Riley targeted Casino Pauma’s worker’s compensation insurance policy. Since insurance premiums are calculated at both the beginning and end of every year, it is common for liability, and thus premiums, to fluctuate as the number of employees grows or shrinks. A return of excess premiums is possible at the end of a policy cycle, and in 2007, the Casino Pauma was due a premium refund of over $172,000. Riley failed to return the premium refund, which was his duty as a licensed agent. In 2010, the loss to the casino was discovered and prompted the criminal investigation.

Riley’s arrest and sentencing are the result of a yearlong multi-agency investigation that included the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, the California Department of Justice, Bureau of Gambling Control and the California Department of Insurance, with cooperation from the Pauma-Yuima Band of Lusieños Indians and Casino Pauma.

“This investigation highlights the collaborative work between Department of Justice Special Agents and Investigative Auditors, as well as, the mutually respectful Tribal, State and County Government relationships in the pursuit of justice,” said California Department of Justice, Bureau of Gambling Control, Bureau Chief Wayne J. Quint, Jr.