Resorts World Las Vegas has been fined $10.5 million by the Nevada Gaming Commission for allowing individuals with ties to illegal bookmaking and federal felony histories to gamble at its casino. This fine is the second-largest ever imposed by Nevada gaming regulators, following a $20 million fine against Wynn Resorts Ltd. in 2019. The penalty comes after a complaint from the Nevada Gaming Control Board regarding anti-money laundering compliance failures.
As part of the settlement, Resorts World has agreed to implement stricter anti-money laundering measures and has made changes to its leadership. The property’s parent company, Genting Berhad, has restructured its executive team and established a board of directors that includes notable figures such as Alex Dixon, former MGM Resorts International chairman Jim Murren, and former Nevada governor Brian Sandoval.
The settlement stems from a complaint that cited involvement with illegal bookmakers Mathew Bowyer and Damien Leforbes. Bowyer, who lost nearly $8 million at the casino, was reportedly not vetted for his source of funds by the casino’s compliance committee. Additionally, Bowyer’s wife, Nicole Bowyer, who was a registered independent agent at the casino, is also facing disciplinary action.
Scott Sibella, the former president and COO of Resorts World, faced disciplinary action for failing to adhere to anti-money laundering regulations during his tenure at MGM Grand. His gaming license was revoked, and he was fined $10,000.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board’s settlement with Sibella addresses his actions at MGM Grand and resolves any responsibilities attributable to him at Resorts World. While the state-level settlement is finalized, the Nevada Gaming Control Board retains the right to pursue further action if federal authorities decide to take action against Resorts World.