In a striking move that underscores the ongoing battle against corruption within the gaming industry, the Nevada Gaming Control Board has lodged a severe disciplinary complaint against Resorts World Las Vegas. The complaint, filed on Thursday, paints a damning picture of a prominent Las Vegas Strip casino that allegedly facilitated illegal bookmaking activities, associated with convicted felons and figures tied to organized crime.
Central to the controversy is Mathew Bowyer, a Southern California bookmaker notorious for handling illicit sports wagers, including those from Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter. Bowyer, who recently admitted guilt to operating an illegal gambling enterprise in a federal court in Santa Ana, California, is accused of using Resorts World Las Vegas as his playground. Over approximately 15 months, Bowyer gambled on 80 separate days, losing a staggering $6.6 million, during which the casino reportedly lavished him with gifts, discounts, and even flights on its private jet.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board’s complaint details a troubling scenario where Resorts World Las Vegas not only allowed Bowyer’s extensive gambling but also failed to scrutinize the origins of his funds adequately. This oversight occurred despite the casino eventually banning Bowyer following a federal raid on his residence on October 6, 2023.
The board’s filing lists 12 counts of infractions against Resorts World — half of which are directly related to Bowyer — including negligence in distancing the establishment from suspected illegal bookmakers and a failure by casino hosts to report dubious bookings. Furthermore, the complaint accuses the casino of extending credit to individuals with criminal convictions related to illegal gambling or organized crime.
“This culture results in the perception and/or reality that Resorts World is an avenue to launder funds derived from illegal activity and/or to further criminal activity causing damage to the reputation of the state of Nevada and Nevada’s gaming industry,” the board stated emphatically in the complaint.
In response to these serious allegations, Resorts World has expressed its commitment to rectifying the situation. “We are committed to doing business with the utmost integrity and in compliance with applicable laws and industry guidelines,” the casino asserted in a statement, indicating ongoing communications with the board to resolve the issues at hand.
The Nevada Gaming Commission, which holds the reins on disciplinary actions, has yet to make a decision. “The commission has the power to decide what it wants to do with this,” explained Michael Green, an associate professor of history at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He noted that the commission could either impose fines, revoke the license, or possibly force out executives, highlighting the breadth of their authority and the gravity of the situation.
As the gaming industry watches closely, the outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how Nevada handles compliance and integrity within its famed gaming sector. The commission’s decision remains pending, leaving the future of Resorts World Las Vegas hanging in the balance.
