Published on: December 30, 2025, 08:37h.
Updated on: December 30, 2025, 08:37h.
- Allegations of strangulation and robbery involving a casino patron with a charging cable.
- Authorities utilized video surveillance and interviews; a jacket containing a methamphetamine syringe was discovered.
- Suspect confessed to the robbery; now in custody at Gallatin County jail.
A man from Belgrade, Montana was apprehended on Sunday night after being accused of robbing and assaulting a gambler in the restroom of the Magic Diamond Casino in Belgrade, which lies around 10 miles west of Bozeman.
Authorities identified Ayden Klompien, 25, as the suspect who allegedly followed his victim into the restroom, used a cellphone charging cable to strangle him, and stole between $1,500 and $1,700 from his front pocket, as reported by the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office. The suspect subsequently fled the scene.
Officers responded to the casino at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, according to Captain Michael Van Meter. The victim recounted meeting three individuals at the casino prior to the incident and had generously given them $20 each to try their luck on slot machines. One of these individuals was identified as Klompien by the authorities.
Methamphetamine Syringe Discovered
The victim described the attacker as a blond male approximately 25 years old wearing blue jeans. Using witness testimonies and video evidence, deputies were able to pinpoint Klompien, who is already known to law enforcement.
Shortly thereafter, deputies discovered a jacket matching the description from the surveillance footage. Inside the jacket, they located a syringe with remnants of methamphetamine, according to court documents.
Later that evening, police found Klompien on West Shore Drive in Belgrade, situated roughly a 30-minute walk from the casino. He was in possession of the stolen cash and confessed to the robbery, admitting to discarding his jacket, which contained the syringe.
Previous Criminal History
Klompien faces charges of robbery and possession of dangerous drugs, as dictated by court records. He is currently held at the Gallatin County Detention Center.
Reports from local news indicate that Klompien has a history of driving-related offenses and was arrested earlier this year for suspected meth distribution.
During a probation search of his residence, authorities found illicit substances, a digital scale, and multiple small plastic bags, as outlined in a report by Belgrade News.
Law enforcement suggested prosecuting Klompien and his roommate for felony drug distribution and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia; however, District Court records pertaining to this case are currently unavailable.
Despite Captain Van Meter emphasizing that crime rates in and around Montana’s casinos remain stable, he urged gamblers to stay alert.
“When dealing with substantial amounts of cash in public places, it’s crucial to be mindful of your behavior, personal items, and valuables,” he stated.