By KERI CHAMPION

Staff Reporter

KENNER-Three LaPlace residents were arrested last week in connection with a scam that allowed players free comps at Treasure Chest Casino in Kenner.

John Fernandez, 58, Martin Fernandez, 36, and John Fernandez III, all of LaPlace were all arrested for their involvement in the comp scam, according to the Louisiana State Police.

The suspects, while not the mastermind behind the scam were participants in criminal activity at the Treasure Chest Casino, State Police reported.

Senior Trooper David Robinette, said that the scam involved a Treasure Chest floor supervisor, Duck David Nguyen, who would reset the computers to make it look like the players had played for longer than they had or

even when they were not playing at all.

&#8220The investigation revealed that Nguyen would let the players and patrons rack up comps such as checks or buffets illegally and then a percentage of the money won was paid to him,” Robinette said.

The scam was run between Jan. 1 and August 12, 2005.

&#8220There are a total of 21 people involved in the scam and we are looking to arrest 13 more in addition to the eight that have already been taken into custody,” said Robinette.

The suspects were charged with theft by fraud over $100, and criminal conspiracy to commit theft by fraud.