LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Resorts World is accused of providing access to illegal bookmakers for money laundering purposes, according to a recent complaint filed by the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
In the 31-page complaint, the NGCB describes in detail how agents discovered activities at Resorts World that allowed people to gamble who had alleged or, in some cases, actual ties to illegal bookmaking, a history of federal felony convictions related to illegal gambling, and ties to organized crime. The complaint states that people were allowed to bet millions of dollars over many months, creating the impression that Resorts World was a place for money laundering.
“The Nevada Gaming Control Board is committed to protecting the State of Nevada, its citizens and visitors, and Nevada’s vital gaming industry,” said Kirk Hendrick, Chairman of the NGCB. “All alleged violations of Nevada’s gaming laws and regulations are fully investigated and disciplinary action is taken when necessary.”
Suspected or known criminals betting at Resorts World, including
- Mathew Bowyer, who pleaded guilty in federal court to operating an illegal gambling business, money laundering and signing a false tax return
- Edwin Ting, convicted in federal court of illegal gambling, known to have ties to organized crime
- Chad Iwamoto, convicted in federal court of passing on betting information and failing to file monthly tax returns for wages
- Another person is suspected of being an illegal bookmaker.
In addition to the main complaint, a separate complaint was filed against Nicole Bowyer, the wife of Mathew Bowyer and a registered independent agent who had a contract with Resorts World. As an independent agent who had a contract with Resorts World, she was allowed to profit directly from her husband’s and his friends’ casino bets at Resorts World. Consequently, she received payments from Resorts World even though she certainly knew that her husband’s source of funds came at least in part from illegal activities.
To date, she has not cooperated with the NCGB investigation.
