A storm of legal trouble has descended upon Resorts World Las Vegas, as a new lawsuit alleges a pattern of deliberate misconduct reaching the highest levels of the casino’s leadership. Filed this week in Nevada, the suit accuses executives of violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), painting a disturbing picture of a casino prioritizing profit over legal compliance.
At the heart of the case are high-stakes gambler Robert (R.J.) Cipriani and businessman James Russell, who claim Resorts World knowingly fostered an environment where criminals could launder money. The complaint specifically names former hotel president Scott Sibella and prominent Las Vegas attorney David Chesnoff, alongside other current and past executives, alleging their direct involvement in a calculated scheme.
The lawsuit doesn’t mince words, asserting from the outset that Resorts World has “proven beyond question that it is unfit and incapable of operating a casino and hotel complex in compliance with the law.” This bold claim stems from a series of alleged failures, culminating in a landmark penalty earlier this year.
In a stinging rebuke, the Nevada Gaming Commission levied a $10.5 million fine against Resorts World for significant anti-money laundering deficiencies. The unanimous 4-0 vote by the Gaming Control Board underscored the severity of the alleged violations, signaling deep concerns about the casino’s operational practices.
The core accusation is that Resorts World intentionally disregarded regulatory and legal boundaries, adopting a business strategy designed to maximize revenue by attracting illicit activity. The lawsuit alleges that the casino actively welcomed individuals seeking to conceal the origins of their funds, turning a blind eye to criminal enterprises in pursuit of profit.
This isn’t the first time Cipriani has taken aim at Sibella and Resorts World; he previously filed a similar suit last year. The repeated legal challenges suggest a persistent and deeply rooted conflict, hinting at a long-simmering dispute with potentially far-reaching consequences.
Resorts World has responded with a firm denial, dismissing the lawsuit as a rehash of old grievances and a transparent attempt to damage the casino’s reputation and extract financial compensation. A spokesperson stated the company will “vigorously defend” itself against what it calls a “meritless action.”
The case promises a detailed examination of Resorts World’s internal operations and the conduct of its leadership. As the legal battle unfolds, it threatens to expose potentially damaging truths about the inner workings of one of Las Vegas’s most prominent casinos and the lengths to which some may go to secure financial gain.
