DOJ Investigation Into Wynn Las Vegas Liquor Contract Allegations
Federal Investigation Targets Wynn Resorts Over Liquor Dealings
Wynn Resorts is currently under federal scrutiny due to a Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation concerning the handling of liquor contracts at its Las Vegas casinos. While the investigation is still in its early phase, no charges have been filed against the company yet.
The allegations have sparked renewed attention on internal oversight within one of the most closely monitored names in the gaming industry.
Examining the Alleged Pay-for-Play Arrangement
The main focus of the investigation is whether employees or affiliates of Wynn Resorts received illicit financial benefits linked to the awarding or fulfillment of liquor supply contracts at the company’s properties. Federal investigators are exploring if certain vendors were given preferential treatment in exchange for kickbacks or other forms of incentives, and whether proper controls failed to detect or prevent these actions.
A whistleblower connected to the DOJ has identified Wynn Las Vegas Assistant Vice President of Daylife and Nightlife, Ryan Jones, as a central figure in the alleged misconduct. He is suspected of benefiting to the tune of millions over several years through credit cards issued by liquor distributors, which sources have described as part of a pay-for-play scheme.
Company Not Yet Charged; Investigation Ongoing
At this stage, Wynn Resorts has not been formally accused of any criminal wrongdoing. Authorities are examining financial documents, vendor relationships, and internal communications as part of their inquiry. Prosecutors are reportedly investigating possible violations of federal fraud and bribery statutes, although no public indictments have been made.
Notably, Assistant US Attorney Carl Brooker IV—who previously led a major prosecution against Wynn in 2024 related to unlicensed global money transmitting—has ties to this current investigation. That earlier case resulted in Wynn paying a historic $130.13 million fine, the largest federal penalty ever levied against a single gaming venue.
Regulatory Environment and Company Cooperation
Wynn Resorts operates under stringent oversight from both state and federal regulators, including the Nevada Gaming Control Board. While liquor contracts are not part of the core gaming business, they represent significant financial dealings at large resorts and naturally draw attention during compliance reviews.
Industry insiders report that Wynn is cooperating fully with authorities. The company continues to emphasize its dedication to regulatory compliance and its commitment to promptly addressing any identified issues.
