Nevada Moves to Ban Convicted Bookmaker Wayne Nix from Casinos Over AML Concerns
Nevada Officials Target Convicted Bookmaker Wayne Nix
Nevada gaming authorities are stepping up actions to prevent Wayne Nix, a California-based bookmaker with a criminal background, from entering any casinos across the state. After extensive investigations linking him to illicit betting networks operating within major hotels on the Las Vegas Strip, regulators have proposed adding Nix to Nevada’s official list of banned individuals.
Regulators Set March Review Following Cash Handling Violations
The Nevada Gaming Control Board recently advanced Nix’s case, scheduling a decisive hearing with the Nevada Gaming Commission for early March. This follows uncovering that multiple casinos accepted large sums of cash from Nix despite his known history of unlicensed bookmaking. These transactions were key factors in broader anti-money laundering probes, particularly involving MGM Resorts International.
MGM faced an $8.5 million penalty after investigators revealed that both the MGM Grand and the Cosmopolitan accepted millions of dollars in cash and bets from Nix. This scandal contributed to the downfall of Scott Sibella, the former MGM Grand president, who admitted in federal court to failing to report Nix’s illicit activity and subsequently lost his state gaming license.
Wayne Nix himself pleaded guilty in 2022 to operating an illegal gambling operation and submitting false tax returns but was absent from the recent hearing. Presentations from state attorneys detailed how Nix transported large amounts of cash to Las Vegas in various bags, using the funds for gambling and settling outstanding debts. Nix also colluded with casino hosts to gain access and secure referrals, sometimes offering commissions to attract new bettors.
Board Highlights Threat to Gaming Integrity, Supports Permanent Ban
Members of the Nevada Gaming Control Board emphasized that Nix’s conduct extended well beyond casual wagering. One official noted that Nix exploited Nevada casinos to launder money generated from illegal bookmaking, compromising the integrity of the state’s regulated gaming sector. Casino personnel were reportedly aware of Nix’s unlawful bookmaker status, posing risks to the gambling environment’s honesty.
The Board cited Nix’s criminal record and violations of California gaming laws as additional grounds for his exclusion from Nevada casinos. This case is one of two being advanced by the regulatory body, with another decision pending in January concerning accused bookmaker Matthew Bowyer, whose ties to Caesars Entertainment and Resorts World Las Vegas have led to multimillion-dollar fines.
If approved, Nix would join a select group of individuals permanently barred from entering any Nevada casino, a stern measure designed to uphold public trust in the state’s gambling industry.
