Nevada regulators accuse Resorts World Las Vegas of allowing illegal bookies to gamble

The Nevada Gaming Control Board has filed a disciplinary complaint against Resorts World Las Vegas, alleging that the casino engaged in significant regulatory breaches. The complaint, submitted Thursday, accuses the casino of having allowed individuals with connections to illegal bookmaking, histories of gambling-related felony convictions, and ties to organized crime to gamble on its premises.

The 31-page complaint highlights allegations against the casino for permitting Mathew Bowyer, a Southern California bookmaker who recently admitted guilt to running an illegal gambling operation, to place thousands of bets over a 15-month period.

According to the board, Bowyer lost over $6.6 million during this time while receiving various benefits from the casino, including gifts, discounts, and flights on Resorts World’s private jet. Bowyer was banned from the casino on October 6, 2023, following the execution of a federal warrant at his residence.

The complaint details twelve counts against Resorts World, including failing to distance itself from suspected illegal bookmakers and neglecting to report unusual or suspicious activity. The board also alleges that the casino extended substantial credit to individuals with known criminal backgrounds related to illegal gambling and organized crime.

Other individuals named in the complaint include Edwin Ting, convicted of operating an illegal gambling business and linked to organized crime; Chad Iwamoto, convicted of transmitting wagering information and failing to file tax returns; and another person suspected of illegal bookmaking.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board’s Chairman, Kirk Hendrick

The complaint alleges that Resorts World failed to comply with anti-money laundering regulations and demonstrated a lack of control over its operations. It criticizes the casino for allegedly ignoring suspicious activities for financial gain, which could damage the reputation of Nevada's gaming industry.

In response, Resorts World stated: “We are committed to doing business with the utmost integrity and in compliance with applicable laws and industry guidelines. We have been actively communicating with the GCB to resolve these issues so we can move forward and focus on our guests and nearly 5,000 team members.”

The board has recommended that the Nevada Gaming Commission consider fines and possibly more severe actions, including the suspension or revocation of Resorts World’s gaming license. The commission, which oversees such disciplinary actions, has not yet responded to local media requests for comment regarding the timing of its decision.

Additionally, the board has filed a separate complaint against Nicole Bowyer, Mathew Bowyer’s wife and a registered independent agent for Resorts World. The board alleges that Nicole Bowyer received payments from the casino despite knowing her husband’s funds were derived from illegal activities. She has reportedly failed to cooperate with the investigation.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board’s Chairman, Kirk Hendrick, stated: "All suspected violations of Nevada’s gaming laws and regulations will be fully investigated and disciplinary action will be filed when warranted."

This development follows prior claims by informant Robert “RJ” Cipriani, who had predicted such regulatory actions and accused Resorts World of turning a blind eye to illegal gambling activities. The case is expected to proceed with potential hearings or settlement negotiations, with resolutions potentially taking several months.