Nevada Moves to Ban Convicted Bookmaker Linked to Money Laundering from Casinos

Nevada Authorities Target Notorious Bookmaker Wayne Nix

Nevada gaming regulators are taking steps to prohibit California bookmaker Wayne Nix from entering any casino within the state. This action escalates his presence on Nevada’s official blacklist of banned individuals. The decision follows extensive investigations into illegal gambling operations connected to major resorts on the Las Vegas Strip.

Upcoming March Decision Following Casino Cash Violations

The Nevada Gaming Control Board has advanced Nix’s case, scheduling a final ruling by the Nevada Gaming Commission later this March. Their review uncovered that multiple casinos accepted substantial cash payments from Nix despite being aware of his unlicensed bookmaking background.

Significant attention was given to MGM Resorts International, which was fined $8.5 million after it was revealed that the MGM Grand and previously the Cosmopolitan had accepted millions in cash and bets from Nix. These dealings played a central role in a broader anti-money laundering probe that ultimately ended the career of former MGM Grand president Scott Sibella. Sibella admitted in federal court to failing to report Nix’s activities and subsequently lost his gaming license.

Nix pleaded guilty in 2022 to operating an illegal gambling enterprise and filing a false tax return but did not attend the recent hearing. Evidence presented by state prosecutors showed he regularly transported large amounts of cash to Las Vegas, which he used for gambling and settling debts. He also solicited casino hosts for entry and referrals, even promising commissions for bringing in new players.

Threat to Gaming Integrity Cited in Push for Lifetime Ban

Board members emphasized that Nix’s involvement extended well beyond ordinary gambling, asserting that he exploited Nevada casinos to launder money from his illicit operations. They stressed the importance of protecting the integrity of regulated gaming venues against such threats.

Officials noted that casino staff were aware of Nix’s illegal bookmaking activities, which compromised the trustworthiness of the gaming environment. His criminal record and violations of California gaming laws further justify his permanent exclusion from Nevada casinos.

Nix’s case is among the first to move forward, with a similar matter involving another unlawful bookmaker, Matthew Bowyer, set to be reviewed in January. Bowyer’s associations with major casino operators have already led to multi-million dollar fines. If banned, Nix would join a select group barred permanently from all Nevada casinos, a measure officials say is vital to maintaining public confidence in the state’s gambling industry.