The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has proposed a $7.8 million settlement with Caesars Entertainment over what regulators described as “unsuitable operating methods” at Caesars Palace casino in Las Vegas. The penalty stems from allegations that the operator failed to properly identify and prevent illegal gambling activities on its premises.
This marks the second major regulatory action against Caesars in connection with illegal gambling operations. The company previously agreed to an $8.5 million penalty related to unlicensed gambling complaints at MGM Grand and The Cosmopolitan involving bookmaker Mathew Bowyer and former Minor League Baseball player Wayne Nix.
Remedial Measures and Compliance Conditions
The proposed settlement outlines extensive remedial measures that Caesars has already implemented, with additional conditions now being placed on the company’s gaming approvals. The NGCB found that Caesars’ anti-money laundering (AML) procedures were “ineffective in identifying a customer’s source of funds and accurately assessing allegations of illegal activity.”
Under the settlement terms, Caesars must comprehensively update its AML programme and report all revisions directly to the NGCB chair. The company’s chief legal officer or chief compliance officer will be required to meet with the board upon request to review compliance measures.
Mandatory Training Requirements
The settlement imposes strict training requirements across multiple levels of Caesars’ organization. Casino hosts, independent agents, player development staff, marketing teams, and any employee authorized to extend $50,000 or more in credit must receive in-person AML training.
Board directors will be required to complete annual AML training, and Caesars must designate a specific individual responsible for handling AML decisions, including customer suspensions and reinstatements.
Background and Industry Impact
Mathew Bowyer pleaded guilty to federal illegal gambling charges in California in 2024. His case has triggered multiple enforcement actions across Nevada casinos. In March 2025, Resorts World Las Vegas agreed to pay a $10.5 million fine for allowing Bowyer to conduct gambling activities at its property.
The Nevada Gaming Commission will consider the proposed $7.8 million penalty against Caesars at its monthly meeting on November 20. If approved, the fine will be directed to Nevada’s General Fund.
As part of the settlement agreement, Caesars does not admit or deny any allegations and has waived its right to present evidence or pursue judicial review of the regulatory findings.
Source: Nevada Gaming Control Board
