Pro poker player Damien LeForbes has pleaded guilty to federal charges of bookmaking and washing millions through a Las Vegas casino. LeForbes also has a connection to a case involving the stolen money of MLB star Shohei Ohtani through his interpreter. He faces up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $500,000 fine. He is said to have lost $12.3 million in bets at Resorts World Las Vegas. He also allegedly issued a bad check for $2.5 million against the casino.
Damien LeForbes pleaded a plea bargain in June, admitting he’s accepted illegal bets for three years and employed casino hosts to help him place wagers. Other felons identified by the Las Vegas Review-Journal as having engaged in wagering at Resorts World include Mathew Bowyer, Edwin Ting, and Chad Iwamoto.
Bowyer and his wife Nicole helped expose Resorts World to scrutiny from the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB). Nicole worked as a casino host and connected bookmakers with customers. Despite being called a professional poker player, LeForbes has no notable tournament results and has lost millions at Resorts World.
On August 15, the NGCB filed a complaint against Resorts World for damaging Nevada’s gaming reputation. The complaint alleges that the casino knowingly allowed individuals with ties to illegal gambling and organized crime to gamble there. Resorts World is accused of failing to follow anti-money laundering regulations and maintaining poor control over suspicious activities.
Resorts World can answer these charges through a hearing or through a settlement. The fine against the casino can go as high as $3 million. Resorts World said they are committed to integrity and compliance and that they are working towards rectifying the issues.
Federal authorities in California, where the bookies are based, have also investigated Resorts World. Bowyer said he took bets from the interpreter who stole more than $16 million from Ohtani. The money was laundered through reality TV star Ryan Boyajian and used to gamble at Resorts World.
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