The regulator has reportedly uncovered potential evidence that individuals associated with Resorts World Las Vegas may have facilitated illegal gambling activities linked to unsavoury figures.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) claims to have found evidence that Resorts World Las Vegas and its “agents” and “affiliated companies” may have been complicit with illegal bookmakers, who in turn had ties to organised crime.

Resorts World Faces Serious Allegations in Las Vegas

The allegations emerged during a disciplinary hearing held this Thursday, levelling serious accusations against the prominent land-based venue. Should these complaints prove to be true, the regulator has indicated it could, and likely would, impose fines and other disciplinary actions, according to a statement from the NGCB.

The NGCB alleges that millions of dollars in wagers were placed at Resorts World over an extended and unspecified period. While this in itself was not necessarily a violation, the regulator further claims that the property failed to carry out the necessary anti-money laundering procedures.

In a damning statement, the NGCB detailed its concerns with the property, stating:

“The culture within Resorts World created the perception, or the reality in certain instances, that Resorts World is an avenue to launder funds derived from illegal activity. The NGCB investigation revealed acceptance among Resorts World executives of a culture where information of suspicious or illegal activity is, at a minimum, negligently disregarded, or at worst, wilfully ignored for financial gain.“

The NGCB also expressed concern about the reputational damage this case could cause both to the State of Nevada and the local gambling industry, which has been striving to distance itself from any suggestion that the Silver State’s thriving gaming sector is in any way connected to organised crime or that such activities are tolerated.

Property Ready to Collaborate to Ensure Business Continues as Usual

According to the regulator, Resorts World has failed to uphold its licensing duty to guard against such activities. NGCB Chairman Kirk Hendrick stated that all suspected violations will be investigated, and disciplinary action will be taken when and if warranted.

Meanwhile, Resorts World has issued an official statement through a spokesperson, acknowledging awareness of these proceedings.

The spokesperson also emphasised that the establishment is committed to upholding the highest regulatory and industry standards and has been in communication with the NGCB to resolve the issues raised, ensuring the property can continue to serve its guests and employ more than 5,000 team members.