Published on: August 26, 2025, 07:00h. 

Updated on: August 26, 2025, 07:02h.

• Criminal syndicate sentenced after botched casino heist
• Exaggerated rumors led to inflated jackpot claims of Choctaw Casino patron
• Justice served for targeted gambler in North Texas by local prosecutors

 A resident of North Texas experienced a small jackpot at the Choctaw Casino in Durant, Oklahoma, which took a dangerous turn when a gang mistakenly believed the amount to be significantly larger than it actually was.

All four individuals involved have been handed sentences ranging from five to ten years in prison, as confirmed by officials from Grayson County, Texas.

The individual who was victimized, choosing to maintain anonymity throughout the legal process, left the casino with his winnings on February 6 of this year, according to court records.

Situated about 30 miles north of the Texas state line, the Durant casino is a favored spot for North Texas players due to its expansive offerings and nearby location.

Whispers of Wealth

As word of the victim’s win circulated, the conjectured amount grew significantly. By the time Paige Sancho caught wind of it, it prompted her to devise a robbery plan in collaboration with her husband, Stephan Sancho, as stated by prosecutors.

They received information that he had won money at the Choctaw Casino, and it appears they assumed it was more than the actual amount,” remarked Bi Hunt, Assistant District Attorney for Grayson County, in a statement. “Hence, they crafted this plot to seize that money from him.”

Paige Sancho “enticed” the victim to her home in Southmayd, Texas, where she feigned needing to step out briefly, telling him she would return shortly. This was the signal for Stephan Sancho and accomplice Dillon Winchester to enter the residence and rob the victim at gunpoint.

Victim’s Brave Escape

Following the robbery, the victim managed to flee and placed a call to 911, leading to the swift apprehension of the trio, who subsequently faced charges for robbery and aggravated robbery. Another individual, Shawn Gravette, assisted the others in fleeing the scene and was charged with engaging in organized criminal conduct, according to prosecutors.

Convictions were attained in stages: one in June, another in July, and the last two in August, noted officials.

Stephan Sancho received a ten-year prison term for aggravated robbery and engaging in organized crime. Paige Sancho was sentenced to eight years for robbery. Gravette was handed an eight-year sentence for his involvement in organized activities, and Winchester was given a five-year term for aggravated robbery.