How three gamblers lost $24 million at Resorts World Las Vegas

Lea Hogg June 3, 2024

SiGMA news

How three gamblers lost $24 million at Resorts World Las Vegas

Three gamblers found themselves in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons in Las Vegas. Damien LeForbes, Ryan Boyajian, and Matt Bowyer collectively lost almost $24 million at Resorts World Las Vegas, a staggering sum that has raised eyebrows and triggered investigations.

LeForbes, who reportedly lost about $12.3 million during nearly 50 visits to Resorts World, also allegedly presented a bad check for $2.5 million to the casino. Boyajian, known for his appearances on the “Real Housewives of Orange County” TV show, lost approximately $3.7 million over 21 visits. Bowyer, a California-based bookmaker, reportedly lost $7.9 million between 2022 and 2023 during his 32 visits.

Despite their significant losses, none of the three have been charged with any crime. However, their actions have drawn attention to the broader issues of gambling, money laundering, and potential illicit activity in Las Vegas casinos.

Bowyer’s losses are particularly noteworthy due to his alleged connection to a theft involving Los Angeles Dodgers star player Shohei Ohtani. Ippei Mizuhara, Ohtani’s former translator, is accused of stealing almost $17 million from Ohtani’s bank account. Some of the stolen money reportedly made its way to Bowyer via Mizuhara, and was eventually deposited in an account at Resorts World.

Gamble gone wrong, potential pitfalls

The money was then converted into gambling chips and, after being cashed, was allegedly given to Bowyer or his associate. Mizuhara, who is heavily in debt due to gambling losses and has total debts estimated at $40.7 million, was fired by the Dodgers after the theft was revealed. He has since agreed to a plea deal in response to fraud allegations and faces up to 33 years in prison if convicted.

Resorts World Las Vegas has not been charged with any violations in relation to these incidents. However, the casino, along with several others in Las Vegas, is under investigation by the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) and federal investigators for possible money laundering and other potential illicit activities.

The case also shines a light on former Resorts World Las Vegas president Scott Sibella, who was the subject of a complaint by the NGCB for activities dating back to when he was president at MGM Grand. Sibella was accused of allowing illegal bookies to gamble at the MGM Grand without questioning the source of their funds. He was fired by Resorts World in September for violating company policy, pleaded guilty in January to violating the Bank Secrecy Act, and was recently sentenced to one year’s probation and must pay a $9,500 fine, plus a $100 special assessment.

As investigations continue, the spotlight remains firmly on Resorts World Las Vegas and the high-profile individuals involved in this intriguing saga.