The author of The Theory of Poker was arrested on domestic violence charges but released
Poker author and longtime professional David Sklansky was arrested in Las Vegas last Thursday on suspicion of domestic battery, according to confirmation from different media. The incident drew attention across the poker world due to Sklansky’s influence on modern strategy and theory. He was taken into custody on January 29 and was later released the same day after posting bail.
Public records from the Las Vegas Detention Center showed the 78-year-old was booked and scheduled for an initial court appearance that afternoon. Bail was set at $3,000. Law enforcement has not released details surrounding the allegations, and police declined to comment further on the investigation.
Shortly after his release, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office decided not to file formal charges. With prosecutors declining to move forward, the case appears closed for now. No additional court dates are scheduled, and Sklansky is no longer listed as facing active charges related to the arrest.
Sklansky is widely known as one of poker’s most influential thinkers. His 1994 book The Theory of Poker is often considered required reading for serious players and helped shape the analytical approach that dominates the game today. He has written 14 gambling-related books and earned the nickname “The Mathematician” for his focus on logic and probability.
Beyond writing, Sklansky enjoyed success at the tables. He won three World Series of Poker bracelets, with victories in 1982 and 1983, and has more than $1.4 million in recorded tournament earnings. While not known as a high-volume tournament player, he has remained active in Las Vegas cash games for decades.
