Casino Executive Gets Probation For Anti-Money Laundering ViolationsFormer MGM Resorts, Resorts World GM Reaches Plea Deal |
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The former president of MGM Grand Casino received one year of probation last week after reaching a plea deal with federal prosecutors. Scott Sibella violated federal anti-money laundering laws in a case involving former minor league baseball player turned underground bookie Wayne Nix.
The bookmaker was allowed to gamble millions of dollars at the casino without Sibella notifying federal authorities. Sibella pleaded guilty in January with federal prosecutors arguing that he “turned a blind eye” to actions that he knew to be criminal. However, U.S. District Judge Dolly Gee didn’t issue any prison time because the former casino executive had no prior criminal history and worked with investigators.
“You will never see me in your court again,” Sibella told the court.
Agreement Ends MGM Grand Case
Sibella later became president of Resorts World, also in Las Vegas, before being fired for “failing to disclose certain information required under company policies” after details regarding the MGM scandal came to light.
For his part in the affair, Nix and several associates pleaded guilty in 2022 to running an illegal gambling business and filing a false tax return. He is now awaiting sentencing in the case.
Investigators say Nix visited the MGM Grand several times over three years and wagered up to $3 million. Nix and associates were also treated to numerous perks including golf trips with company executives as well as free rooms, meals, and more. Sibella admitted as part of his plea agreement that he knew Nix operated an underground sportsbook.
Federal and state officials continue to investigate the use of casino gambling as a means of laundering money obtained illegally. Nevada Gaming Control Board agents have reportedly contacted officials at the Venetian, Aria, Resorts World, and other casinos concerning another high-stakes gambler and poker player Damien LeForbes. His California home was recently raided by federal officials.
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