Casino robbery suspects both plead innocent

Two men arrested for allegedly robbing the Lucky Lil’s Casino on West Idaho Street in Kalispell pleaded not guilty to charges Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Jesus Din, 20, and Kyser Nelson, 19, both of Kalispell, were arrested Dec. 1.

According to court documents, officers patrolling the area after the alleged robbery observed a truck that turned all its lights out as it was leaving the area before it pulled into the parking lot of the Appleway Drive apartments.

After the occupants left the vehicle, a silver revolver was seen inside, matching the description of the weapon used in the robbery.

The truck was registered to Nelson. Officers then located Din and Nelson and arrested them. During an interview with Kalispell police, Nelson admitted driving the truck to the casino knowing that Din was planning to rob it.

Din also confessed to committing the robbery.

A search of the truck, authorized by Nelson, turned up two handguns and clothing consistent with details from the robbery.

Nelson is charged with accountability to robbery and faces between two and 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.

He is currently free after paying a $5,000 cash bond.

In court on Thursday, Din, who still is incarcerated, did not look away from Nelson. Nelson stared straight ahead.

Din is charged with robbery and also faces between two and 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. He is being held in the Flathead County Detention Center with bond set at $40,000.

The next hearing for each man is Jan. 18.