The recent arrest of a parolee on theft charges inside Red Hawk Casino offers some insight into the new gambling venue's strong in-house security system.

But an armed robbery Sunday on a nearby country road serves as a reminder that visitors are still vulnerable as criminals prowl for an easy score.

El Dorado County officials said only time will tell if the bright casino on the hill becomes a mecca for fun-lovers or a problem for local law enforcement.

Casino officials declined to answer questions about security measures to protect gamblers streaming up Highway 50 to Shingle Springs.

Red Hawk opened Dec. 17, drawing 10,000 gamblers on its first day. Since then sheriff's deputies and casino security have dealt with about a half-dozen calls for service, said Sgt. Bryan Golmitz, Sheriff's Department spokesman. The calls have included several thefts, a drunken driving arrest and a domestic dispute.

"A 15 to 17 percent increase in crime was forecast for the casino and the surrounding area," Golmitz said. "I don't think you can make a good prediction based on three weeks."

So far, Golmitz said, the Sheriff's Department is satisfied with the casino's security measures.

"Red Hawk Casino possesses state-of-the-art surveillance and security systems that are at the forefront of the industry," the casino's public relations firm said in a written statement. "Although we will not disclose details regarding these systems, our experienced security personnel will continue to take the appropriate measures and work collaboratively with the El Dorado County Sheriff's Department and other authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment."

On Dec. 28, 48-year-old parolee John Gee of Fairfield allegedly stole a woman's purse containing $1,000 in cash, numerous credit cards and a digital camera. The whole thing was caught on the casino's surveillance system.

Footage taken near the bank of slot machines where the woman had left the bag showed Gee as he walked away with it, according to a police report.

The footage showed Gee leave the casino and return a few minutes later. Guards took him into custody and called the El Dorado County Sheriff's Department. Deputies arrested him on suspicion of grand theft and violating parole.

On Sunday morning, a young man reported that he was robbed by three people while he was trying to fix his car near Strickland Mine and El Dorado roads. The car broke down not long after the man and some friends left Red Hawk, sheriff's officials said.