Money laundering has long plagued the casino and gambling industry. Recently, casino operator SkyCity faced substantial fines amounting to $78 million in New Zealand and Australia for anti-money laundering (AML) violations. Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, the Nevada Gaming Control Board has launched a probe into several casinos, including Resorts World, amid allegations of money laundering connected to illegal sports betting rings. These investigations underscore the ongoing challenges of financial crime within the sector.
According to the Nevada Current, three gamblers under federal investigation for illegal sports betting reportedly lost nearly $24 million at Resorts World since its opening less than three years ago. This significant loss has attracted the attention of federal authorities from California.
Although Resorts World has not been officially charged with any wrongdoing, the potential financial repercussions are substantial. Federal authorities typically impose hefty fines on corporations to recover illicit gains.
One of the gamblers under scrutiny is Damien LeForbes, who is linked to illegal sports betting activities. Sources reveal that LeForbes lost $12.3 million over nearly 50 visits to Resorts World. Additionally, casino records indicate that Resorts World forwarded a $2.5 million bad check from LeForbes to the Clark County District Attorney, although no legal action has been taken.
Another key figure in the investigation is Ryan Boyajian, associated with illegal bookie Matt Bowyer. Boyajian reportedly lost $3.7 million during 21 trips to Resorts World.
Bowyer himself is central to the case, having lost $7.9 million at Resorts World between 2022 and 2023. ESPN reported that Bowyer received substantial payments from Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter of baseball star Shohei Ohtani, who allegedly embezzled nearly $17 million from Ohtani’s account to support his gambling habit. Mizuhara has since entered a plea deal with federal authorities.
These activities highlight the persistent issue of money laundering within the casino industry, where illegal bookmakers often clean money through casino transactions. Despite the high-profile nature of the case, none of the individuals involved, including Bowyer, Boyajian, and LeForbes, have been formally charged with crimes.
The broader investigation also involves former MGM Grand and Resorts World president Scott Sibella, who was sentenced to probation and fined for failing to report a suspicious transaction involving another gambler. MGM Resorts paid $7.5 million to settle related violations.
Resorts World and other implicated casinos may face significant penalties as the investigation progresses, emphasizing the critical need for rigorous compliance and oversight in the gambling industry.
