LAS VEGAS — A couple refused to stop their sexual encounter on a giant luxury ferris wheel despite warnings from security officers. Their actions resulted in felony charges.
“The High Roller” is marketed as the world’s tallest observation wheel, with luxury cabins that have glass walls from floor to ceiling to enjoy city views.
Chloe Scordianos, 21, of Hicksville, N.Y., and Frank Panzica III, 27, of Houston, Texas, have been charged with committing sex acts in public, a felony, after their Friday afternoon ride in Cabin 16. Friday was her 21st birthday.
According to the arrest report, Caesars security officers used an intercom to advise the couple to “please put all cigarettes out and put all clothes back on,” according to the arrest report. They stopped briefly and sat down, but resumed their activities. They again were asked to cease, but refused.
“The guests in Cabin 17 didn’t seem to notice, but the guests in Cabin 15 not only noticed but were video recording the acts with their cell phones, according to the arrest report.
Surveillance video also caught the encounter on the LINQ attraction at the 550-foot center Strip observation wheel.
“They both said they were just having a good time and didn’t think anyone would notice,” the arresting officers stated in their report.
Police watched the video and “clearly saw Scordianos laying on her back in the center of the cabin. Panzica was on his knees over her and removed her dress. He also removed his clothing and exposed his body parts.
Other encounters have been noticed in the High Roller before. Caesars officials declined comment to KSNV, saying they were deferring all statements to police.
The report says “Several security officers and managers also told me sex acts and public indecency on the High Roller are happening more often which they fear will impact the reputation and business operations of the High Roller.”
Panzica and Scordianos were booked into the Clark County Detention Center, posted bail of $3,000 and were arraigned Tuesday in Las Vegas Justice Court. They are due back in court next month.
The Clark County District Attorney’s office said that if convicted, Panzica and Scordianos will not have to register as sex offenders because the charge does not include an assault.
Panzica was wanted on an outstanding 2010 arrest warrant in Laughlin for failure to pay a speeding ticket, court records show.
Source: KUTV