Schuetz: Who Ya Gonna Call About Money Laundering?

Summary

Richard Schuetz reflects on his experiences within the California Gambling Control Commission to highlight the ongoing issues of money laundering in the gambling industry. He argues that a lack of real gaming industry expertise among regulators contributes to ineffective oversight and suggests initiatives to improve whistleblower processes.

Key Points

  • Schuetz was appointed to the California Gambling Control Commission, highlighting political leanings in appointments over relevant expertise.
  • Many regulatory posts are filled by lawyers or law enforcement rather than individuals with practical casino experience.
  • In Nevada, recent scandals involving money laundering at casinos indicate a significant oversight failure by regulators.
  • Current whistleblower programs within casinos lack effectiveness due to mistrust of management and absence of monetary rewards.
  • Successful whistleblower initiatives have been linked to external programs that promote anonymity and offer financial incentives.
  • Schuetz advocates for Nevada to adopt existing federal whistleblower programs to tackle ongoing money laundering issues.

Why should I read this?

If you have any interest in the casino industry, this article is a must-read! Schuetz brings to light the pressing need for genuine expertise in regulation and introduces practical solutions for tackling money laundering. It’s an eye-opener on how the industry can improve and why it’s crucial for safeguarding both its reputation and operational integrity.