Resorts World casino in Las Vegas fined $10.5M in money-laundering case

Nevada gaming regulators have levied a $10.5 million fine against Resorts World casino in Las Vegas, following allegations of illegal gambling practices. The complaint, filed by the state Gaming Control Board, accused the casino of allowing individuals with connections to illegal bookmaking, including those with histories of gambling-related felony convictions, to place bets on the premises.

The fine, announced on Thursday, marks one of the largest penalties imposed by the Nevada Gaming Commission, which oversees such disciplinary actions. As part of the settlement, Resorts World and its parent company did not admit to or deny the charges but agreed to make significant changes in leadership and enhance procedures to combat money laundering.

Central to the allegations is bookmaker Mathew Bowyer, who had ties to the former interpreter for baseball star Shohei Ohtani. Bowyer has admitted to running an illegal gambling operation and is awaiting sentencing for his actions. The Gaming Control Board reported that Resorts World permitted Bowyer to gamble for 80 days over a span of 15 months, despite not verifying his funding sources.

During that timeframe, Bowyer incurred losses exceeding $6.6 million while the casino provided him with various perks, including gifts, discounts, and flights on its private jet. The initial complaint against Resorts World included 12 counts, with six directly relating to Bowyer's gambling activities.

Other allegations involved granting substantial credit to individuals with backgrounds in illegal gambling or organized crime, further highlighting potential lapses in the casino's oversight practices. Despite the significant fine, Resorts World has yet to issue a public statement regarding the matter.