Suspect Held in Burglaries

LAS VEGAS — A man who so convincingly passed himself off as a pro football player that casinos gave him food and drink and gamblers lined up to get his autograph has been arrested on Orange County burglary charges.

Willis Clyde Thomas, 26, was arrested earlier this week by police at Caesars Palace. At the time, they said, Thomas had cards in his pocket giving him complimentary privileges from several resorts.

Thomas, who stands 6 feet, 5 inches and weighs 285 pounds, has gained a measure of notoriety by posing as National Football League stars since 1986, said Warren R. Welsh, NFL director of security.