
Nevada Gaming Regulators Allege Resorts World Casino Involvement in Unauthorized Gambling Activities
In a shocking development, Nevada’s gaming regulators have accused Resorts World Las Vegas, one of the city’s newest and most luxurious casino resorts, of allowing illegal gambling activities to take place on its premises.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has launched an investigation into the allegations, which, if proven true, could have serious consequences for the resort’s operations and reputation.
The allegations
According to the NGCB, Resorts World Las Vegas is accused of failing to prevent and potentially facilitating unauthorized gambling activities. The specific details of the alleged illegal activities have not been fully disclosed, but in recent days it has become known that most of the allegations against Resorts World Las Vegas focus on Mathew Bowyer, a former interpreter for baseball star Shohei Ohtani who pleaded guilty in federal court in Santa Ana, California, to operating an illegal gambling business.
These accusations come as a significant blow to Resorts World, which opened its doors in June 2021 with much fanfare as the first new resort on the Las Vegas Strip in over a decade. The casino, owned by Malaysia-based Genting Group, represents a $4.3 billion investment and features a wide array of gaming options, luxury accommodations, and high-end entertainment.
Potential consequences
If the NGCB’s investigation confirms the allegations, Resorts World could face hefty fines, sanctions, or even the suspension of its gaming license. The stakes are high, given Nevada’s strict regulatory environment and the importance of maintaining the integrity of the state’s gaming industry.
The allegations also raise broader concerns about the oversight and management of gaming activities in Las Vegas, particularly at a time when the industry is recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. With Las Vegas casinos heavily regulated to prevent any illicit activities, these accusations against a major player like Resorts World could lead to increased scrutiny of other gaming establishments in the area.
The board requested that the Nevada Gaming Commission, which holds the power to enforce disciplinary measures, impose a fine on the company and consider what experts describe as an unusual move against Resorts World’s gaming license.
“The commission has the power to decide what it wants to do with this,” said Michael Green, a history associate professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, who has extensively studied the casino industry in Las Vegas. “They can decide to revoke the license. They can decide no, that’s too much, there should be fines. There are executives who might be forced out…”
Resorts World’s Response
Resorts World has responded to the allegations by pledging full cooperation with the NGCB’s investigation. In a statement, the resort emphasized its commitment to operating within the bounds of the law and maintaining the highest standards of compliance. The casino’s management expressed confidence that the investigation would prove that the allegations are unfounded.
The situation remains fluid, with the NGCB continuing its investigation. As more details emerge, the case could have significant implications for Resorts World and the broader Las Vegas gaming industry.
Industry Implications
The allegations against Resorts World come at a time when the Nevada gaming industry is experiencing a resurgence, with record-breaking revenues reported in recent months. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous regulatory oversight to ensure that all gaming activities are conducted legally and fairly.
For now, the spotlight is on Resorts World and the outcome of the NGCB’s investigation. The case underscores the critical role that Nevada’s gaming regulators play in maintaining the integrity of the state’s most vital industry and ensuring that all operators adhere to the stringent standards required by law.

