[bluechip49]

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The story sounds like b.s.

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I've seen this more than once.

The first time: Shortly after the Excalibur opened a regular low limit player bought in for a $100 rack. He played one hand and then left to get something to eat.
Soon thereafter a young couple ( drunked up or drugged up ) showed up to play. The guy sat down in the open seat and she sat down in the seat with his chips. Nobody seemed to notice.
About the time she had blown his rack down to about $15, original player came back.
When they saw him coming, they picked up and left.
Original player of course freaked and Excalibur security caught the couple.
A happy ending!

Another story: I was playing 10/20 at Foxwoods and left to make a phone call.
When I returned, someone was sitting in my seat, gambling with my chips! He was a regular, but by his fifth vodka, he would be out of control. After a short discussion, we came to a clear understanding. Since then he avoids eye contact with me!

Lession learned: When you leave the table, count your chips, mention it to the dealer, and hope you get backed up if there is a subsequent dispute. There is not much more than you can do, but be careful out there!