Former Resorts World Las Vegas Boss Admits To Breaking the Law

Article by : Erik Gibbs Jan 26, 2024

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On Wednesday, Scott Sibella, the former president and chief operating officer of Resorts World, entered a guilty plea for neglecting to report illegal gamblers at MGM Grand during his tenure in 2018.

The plea was made in the US District Court in Los Angeles, specifically for the failure to file suspicious activity reports while working at MGM. The reports were crucial in the investigation of illegal bookmakers, addressing concerns related to anti-money-laundering laws.

Having served eight years as the president of MGM Grand Las Vegas before his role at Resorts World, Sibella now faces potential consequences, including up to five years in prison and a fine reaching $250,000.

In response to the guilty plea, Sibella, through his legal representatives, issued a statement expressing his intent to continue working in the gaming industry. He expressed satisfaction with the conclusion of the investigation, taking full responsibility for his actions and emphasizing they were not driven by personal gain.

Sibella also thanked the US Attorney’s Office for their professionalism and looked forward to contributing to the gaming industry’s growth. Sibella was removed in September 2023 due to policy violations, according to Resorts World.

His termination came three days after revealing an ongoing investigation at MGM Grand since 2017, unrelated to job-performance concerns at Resorts World.

During his tenure, Sibella played a significant role in securing a franchise agreement with Hilton Hotels Corp., bringing Hilton Honors to Resorts World. Sibella also highlighted Resorts World as the Strip’s pinnacle for cashless gaming during his tenure with the company.

A Las Vegas native, Sibella earned his bachelor’s degree in hotel administration from UNLV’s William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration. He then initiated his hospitality career with an internship at the Golden Nugget in downtown Las Vegas, progressing to the role of hotel manager.

In 2007, Sibella assumed the position of president and chief operating officer at The Mirage, followed by a similar role at the MGM Grand. Currently, he is the defendant in a lawsuit filed by Robert “R.J.” Cipriani, alleging negligence, civil conspiracy and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Sibella’s legal representation contends that the lawsuit revisits baseless accusations from 2022. In February, the Nevada Gaming Control Board concluded its nearly year-long investigation into the allegations against Sibella, determining them to be unfounded.