A lawsuit has been filed this week in Nevada by a high-stakes gambler and a businessman, which alleges violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) against executives at Resorts World Las Vegas.
Gambler Robert (R.J.) Cipriani and businessman James Russell filed the suit, which makes allegations against former and current executives at the company, including former hotel president Scott Sibella and Las Vegas attorney David Chesnoff, among others.
The complaint begins by stating that since its opening in 2021, “Resorts World has proven beyond question that it is unfit and incapable of operating a casino and hotel complex in compliance with the law.”
It continues to mention the landmark $10.5 million fine, which was issued earlier this year by the Nevada Gaming Commission. The casino was punished following alleged anti-money laundering failings, with the Gaming Control Board signing off on the financial punishment with a unanimous 4-0 vote.
Number of people named in lawsuit
“As recounted here, Genting Berhad and Resorts World adopted a deliberate business strategy — premised on ignoring regulatory and legal restrictions — to maximize revenues by welcoming criminals at Resorts World to launder their illicit proceeds,” the lawsuit alleges.
A number of people are mentioned within the complaint, and it marks the second time that Robert Cipriani has filed against Sibella and Resorts World, with the other being from last year.
According to the Nevada Current publication, a spokesperson for Resorts World said via email on Thursday: “We typically do not comment on pending litigation, but this lawsuit repackages old matters and is yet another attempt to bring negative attention to Resorts World Las Vegas and seek some form of compensation.”
“We will vigorously defend ourselves against this meritless action,” the spokesperson’s quote continued. ReadWrite has reached out for comment and to confirm the statement.
Featured Image: CC 2.0 license from Ken Lund on Wikimedia Commons
