In a response to the anti-money laundering violations brought forth by the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) last week, Genting Berhad, the company that owns Resorts World Las Vegas, released a brief statement on Friday. The company stated, “GENT and its subsidiaries are committed to doing business with the utmost integrity and in line with applicable laws and industry guidelines.”
The NGCB filed a list of violations on Thursday that call into question the company’s commitment to compliance. The violations also connected Resorts World to the California sports betting scandal, in which the company allegedly laundered millions of dollars from illegal bookmaker Mathew Bowyer over an 18-month period. According to the complaint, Bowyer gambled on credit while casino employees acknowledged his illegal bookmaking activities. Bowyer pleaded guilty to federal charges earlier in August related to his illegal business.
In response to the allegations, Genting outlined the issues in its statement and acknowledged the potential actions that the NGCB and the Nevada Gaming Commission might take. Key violations described by the NGCB include the failure of Resorts World to establish a source of funds from suspected bookmakers and the failure to restrict two alleged illegal bookmakers and a convicted operator of an illegal gambling business from the casino.
It was also noted that two casino employees failed to report the suspected bookmakers to higher authorities and allegedly referred customers to the illegal bookmakers. Additionally, the casino was found to have contracted with one suspected bookmaker’s wife to be an independent agent, who then acted as a casino host for the illegal bookmaker.
The NGCB expressed significant concerns regarding Resorts World’s culture of compliance. Genting stated in its response that it understands it may face fines, disciplinary action, or even potential loss of its license. The regulators have the authority to assign a supervisor if the Commission revokes or suspends RWLV LLC’s gaming license.
“The allegations relate to operational issues at Resorts World Las Vegas,” Genting stated. “GENT and RWLV LLC take any suggestion of violations very seriously.” The company also mentioned that they have sought legal advice and are looking forward to resolving the issues raised by the NGCB to ensure that business practices at Resorts World Las Vegas meet all regulatory and legal requirements.