Resorts World Las Vegas is under fire for allegedly allowing individuals with ties to organized crime and illegal gambling to operate within its walls. The Nevada Gaming Control Board filed a 31-page complaint on Thursday, August 15, detailing accusations against the prominent Las Vegas Strip casino, which is owned by Genting Group.
These allegations focus on illegal bookmaking, welcoming individuals with felony convictions related to gambling, and connections to organized crime.
Resorts World Las Vegas Allegedly Tied to Organized Crime, Illegal Gambling
According to Bloomberg, one of the central figures in the complaint is Mathew Bowyer, a bookmaker from Southern California. Bowyer is accused of accepting numerous sports bets from over 700 individuals, including a former interpreter for baseball star Shohei Ohtani.
Last week, Bowyer pleaded guilty in a federal court in Santa Ana, California, to running an illegal gambling business. The complaint alleges that Resorts World allowed Bowyer to gamble at the casino for 80 days over a 15-month period without properly verifying the source of his funds.
During this time, Bowyer reportedly lost over $6.6 million, while the casino provided him with gifts, discounts, and even flights on its private jet.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board has asked the Nevada Gaming Commission to consider fining Resorts World and possibly taking disciplinary action against its gaming license.
Experts say that such disciplinary action would be unusual for a casino of this size and reputation. The commission did not respond to requests for comment on when a decision might be made.
Resorts World Las Vegas Responds to Allegations
Resorts World Las Vegas, which employs nearly 5,000 people, is currently working with the board to address these allegations. The casino's management has stated that they are committed to resolving the issues and ensuring the safety and satisfaction of their guests and employees.
The complaint against Resorts World includes 12 allegations, with half of them specifically related to Bowyer. These include failing to maintain a proper distance from suspected illegal bookmakers, casino hosts not reporting suspected illegal activities, and directing potential customers to suspected illegal bookmakers.
The other charges involve the casino extending large amounts of credit to individuals with prior convictions for illegal gambling or involvement in organized crime. One such individual had been convicted of running an illegal gambling operation, while another was involved in a significant internet gambling scheme.
The complaint also highlights that Resorts World employees did not report suspicious activities or potential violations of the casino's anti-money laundering program to their superiors, as per NBC New York.
According to the board's investigation, the casino's program committee members admitted that Bowyer's source of funds did not adequately support his level of gambling.
