Resorts World Las Vegas and its affiliated companies are set to pay a $10.5 million fine after an investigation showed the casino permitted gamblers tied to illegal bookmaking operations and individuals with federal felony convictions to play freely at the venue. The settlement, filed Thursday with Nevada’s gambling regulator, is the second-largest fine in state history.
The Venue Allowed Known Illegal Bookmakers
The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) complaint outlines serious violations related to illegal bookmakers Mathew Bowyer and Damien LeForbes, revealing a concerning pattern of money laundering at the casino. Bowyer faced significant scrutiny during a high-profile investigation concerning Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani’s interpreter, who allegedly placed bets with him. NGCB reports show that Bowyer wagered at Resorts World 80 times and lost $7.9 million.
LeForbes, another major figure in the complaint, was a known illegal bookmaker who frequently visited Resorts World since it opened in 2021. A casino host was aware of his background but still facilitated his gambling, even sending clients his way. LeForbes pleaded guilty in California in August 2024 to charges of illegal bookmaking and money laundering after losing approximately $10 million at Resorts World.
The NGCB contends that such incidents create a perception that Resorts World is a hub for money laundering and criminal activity, potentially harming Nevada’s gaming industry and reputation. However, the regulator pointed out that the resort has already initiated “remedial measures” to address regulatory issues, with a heightened focus on strengthening its AML program.
Resorts World Will Address Underlying Issues
The settlement deal involves Genting Berhad, the parent company of Resorts World Las Vegas, along with five other subsidiaries. As part of the settlement, the venue will implement enhanced anti-money laundering (AML) safeguards, including more frequent reporting to the NGCB and updated training for its compliance committee.
Furthermore, Resorts World must keep AML training records for a minimum of five years and add more compliance personnel to ensure individuals with criminal convictions related to illegal gambling or money laundering do not gamble at the property. Key executives must also attend an AML seminar hosted by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas International Center for Gaming Regulation.
Resorts World appears to have taken the NGCB’s recommendations to heart and has initiated a restructuring of its management team. The casino has appointed former MGM Resorts International Chairman and CEO Jim Murren, former NGCB Chairman A.G. Burnett, and former Nevada Gaming Commission Chairman Brian Sandoval to its board of directors. The NGCB will determine the fate of the proposed settlement on 27 March.
