Gaming Commission Expanding Investigation

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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indiana Gaming Commission says it has nearly completed an expanded investigation of the parent company of Gary’s Majestic Star casinos for alleged violations of the state gaming laws and regulations.
Our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana report IGC Executive Director Sara Tait told the commission this week the investigation involves now more than 10 individuals associated with Indianapolis-based Spectacle Entertainment, or predecessor company Centaur Gaming.
Spectacle is also the parent of the under-construction Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana.
“The findings are significant and include actions involving Spectacle Entertainment Group, Spectacle Gary and certain key persons,” Tait said. “Their suitability and ability to continue to hold gaming licenses is in serious doubt as will be presented to the commission upon the investigation’s termination.”
Tait says the inquiry goes beyond the federal campaign finance violations that sparked the initial inquiry.
The publication says the investigation began earlier this year when John Keeler, vice president and general counsel for Spectacle Entertainment and a former Republican state representative from Indianapolis, were implicated in alleged federal campaign finance violations in court documents filed in Virginia.
The items under review include a variety of business decisions, including financial transactions, ownership transfers, contracts, and improper accounting practices.
“Witnesses have come forward with information pertaining to activities now involved in our review,” said Tait. “The IGC’s investigation is nearly complete.”
The Times reports Spectacle Entertainment did not return a request for comment on the investigation or possible sanctions.
The seven-member Gaming Commission has broad authority under Indiana’s riverboat gambling statute and state regulations to take action to preserve public confidence in gaming and the economic development generated by the industry.
To read the full story from The Times of Northwest Indiana, click here.