At least two gambling authorities in different states have opened investigations into sexual misconduct allegations against Steve Wynn, the US casino mogul.
Nevada’s Gaming Control Board said on Tuesday that it was pursuing an investigation, after the Wall Street Journal published a report that alleged decades of sexual conduct by the 76 year old Wynn.
Steve Wynn, a former Republican National Committee Finance Chief and CEO of Wynn Resorts, has denied all allegations against him.
A statement made by the Nevada Gaming Control Board’s chair, Becky Harris read: “After completing our review, the Nevada Gaming Control Board is conducting an investigation with regard to the allegations of sexual misconduct involving Steve Wynn. The Nevada Gaming Control Board will conduct its investigation in a thorough and judicious manner.”
According to the report in the Wall Street Journal, dozens of current and former employees provided detailed accounts of alleged sexual misconduct. It was even reported that a financial settlement totaling $7.5 million was reached with a manicurist who made claims against Wynn.
Following the investigation by Nevada’s authorities, the Massachusetts gambling regulators held a special meeting on Wednesday to discuss the allegations against Wynn.
Wynn’s company is in the process of building a $2.4 billion casino complex just outside of Boston. If the Massachusetts authorities find that the allegations against Wynn are true, the casino license could be suspended or revoked under state law. The 2011 legislation states that the license is considered a “revocable privilege” and if the licensee is found “unsuitable to operate a gaming establishment”, the license can be taken away.
Massachusetts Governor, Charlie Baker, added that Wynn would “fail to meet the suitability standard under the state gaming law” if found guilty.
The rules in Nevada are similar. The gambling authorities have the right to levy fines against the company or even revoke its license if a licensee is found “unsuitable to operate a gaming establishment.” If activity by an operator or any of its employees is deemed “inimical to the public health, safety, morals, good order and general welfare of state residents, the state gambling regulators could find grounds for disciplinary action.
Shares in Wynn Resorts dropped significantly after it was reported that state gambling regulators were investigating the claims.
