Las Vegas Casinos Escape Sex Trafficking Lawsuit
A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit alleging that two Las Vegas casino giants profited from the sex trafficking of a minor. The case against MGM Resorts International and Boyd Gaming Corp. was brought by an anonymous plaintiff identified as “Tyla D,” who claimed she was forced into commercial sex work as a minor in 2006 and 2007.
“Tyla D.” further alleged that she was again trafficked as an unwilling adult in 2013, claiming these incidents occurred at Mandalay Bay and MGM Grand, both MGM Resorts properties, and The Orleans, owned by Boyd Gaming.
Statute of Limitations a Barrier
While acknowledging the victim’s harrowing allegations, Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon dismissed the lawsuit, citing the expiration of the 10-year statute of limitations as a primary factor. In his Nov. 19 court order, Judge Gordon did however grant “Tyla D.” one month to amend her complaint.
The judge also expressed concern that the lawsuit failed to demonstrate that either casino operator knew or should have known about “Tyla D.’s” sex trafficking experiences.
Macao Gaming Soars, Las Vegas Trailing
In brighter news for the casino industry, Macao’s gambling revenue continues its impressive surge, with a 14.9% increase in November year-over-year. Macao’s Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau reported the region’s casinos generated $2.3 billion (U.S.) compared with $2 billion in November 2023. In comparison, Nevada casinos generate roughly $1.3 billion a month.
For the 11 months of 2024, gaming revenue in Macao reached $25.7 billion, a 26.8%
increase over the same period in 2023. Three Southern Nevada casino companies — Las Vegas Sands Corp., Wynn Resorts Ltd., and MGM Resorts International — hold licenses in Macao’s booming gambling market.
Adelson Doubles Down on Texas Gambling Push
Casino magnate Dr. Miriam Adelson is
intensifying her efforts to legalize gambling in Texas, contributing $13.7 million towards political campaigns in the Lone Star State during the first 10 months of 2024.
The Adelson family’s latest gambling venture involves a majority stake purchase of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks in January 2024. Their ambitious plan is to construct a new arena for the team, incorporating a resort-casino into the development. Adelson is the main shareholder of the Las Vegas Sands Corp., a major player in the global casino industry.
Las Vegas Sands NYC Casino Proposal Faces Public Scrutiny
Meanwhile, Las Vegas Sands Corp. is making a bold bid
for a coveted casino license in downstate New York. The company’s proposed multi-billion-dollar casino-resort for a Long Island suburb is slated to undergo public review on Dec. 9th.
Following the submission of a 28,000-page environmental impact statement, the Nassau County Legislature unanimously confirmed the document’s completeness and compliance with all requirements. The impact
statement is available for public review and comment until Jan. 6th.
Las Vegas Sands’ proposal is one of nearly a dozen expected bids for three available gaming licenses in the downstate New York
region, which encompasses New York City, Long Island, and the counties of Westchester, Rockland, and Putnam. Other casino operators vying for these licenses include MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, Wynn Resorts, Hard Rock International, and Genting Berhad (Resorts World).
How can victims of sex trafficking effectively demonstrate a company’s knowledge of or complicity in the trafficking activity?
## Interview Segment: Las Vegas Casinos Facing Sex Trafficking Lawsuit
**(Host)** We’re joined today by legal expert, Professor Sarah Jones, to discuss a recent case involving accusations of sex trafficking against two major Las Vegas casino operators. Professor Jones, can you give us some background on this case?
**(Professor Jones)** Absolutely. A federal judge recently dismissed a lawsuit filed by a woman identified as “Tyla D.” She alleged that MGM Resorts International and Boyd Gaming Corp. profited from her sex trafficking as a minor in 2006 and 2007, and again as an adult in 2013. This allegedly occurred on properties owned by these companies.
**(Host)** What was the judge’s reasoning for dismissing the case?
**(Professor Jones)** The primary reason cited was the 10-year statute of limitations. While the judge acknowledged the serious nature of “Tyla D.’s” claims, the alleged incidents took place outside of that timeframe. However,
he did offer “Tyla D.” a month to amend her complaint.
**(Host)** Did the judge address any other issues in the case?
**(Professor Jones)** Yes, he expressed concern that the lawsuit hadn’t sufficiently shown that either casino operator had knowledge of, or should have known about, “Tyla D.’s” alleged trafficking experiences. This is a significant hurdle to overcome in these types of cases.
**(Host)** It seems this case highlights the complexities of holding companies accountable in situations like this. What are the challenges in proving these types of claims?
**(Professor Jones)** Proving corporate knowledge and responsibility in sex trafficking cases is extremely difficult. It often requires substantial evidence demonstrating that the company was aware of the trafficking activity occurring on their premises and took insufficient action to stop it.
**(Host)** It’s a disturbing situation all around. Professor Jones, thank you so much for shedding light on this complex case and its implications.
**(Professor Jones)** You’re welcome. It’s a crucial conversation to have.
