U.S. regulated and licensed gambling loses an ally

One of the most respected and sensible influencers on the Massachusetts gambling front, Massachusetts Gambling Commission chairman Stephen Crosby stepped down in a surprise resignation Wednesday, citing accusations of historical bias and prejudging the outcome of the ongoing Wynn Resorts suitability investigation.

In a letter to fellow commissioners Crosby explained:

“With a profound sense of sadness, regret – and yes, frustration—I am resigning as Chair of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, in order to give you the best possible opportunity to do your work without distraction. And I leave the leadership of this organization in the very capable hands of your four Commissioners.”

“On September 17, 2018, I received a letter from a lawyer for Steve Wynn insisting that I had already made up my mind against Steve Wynn regarding the allegations of sexual misconduct against him.

“On September 25, 2018, our counsel received a letter from counsel to Mohegan Sun, which has sued the Commission over the award of the Region A license to Wynn, insisting that I had already made up my mind in favor of Wynn Resorts in the suitability investigations.

“It was about four years ago that the Gaming Commission was battered by lawsuits and accusations of bias in the matter of the Region A licensing process. I was often at the center of these lawsuits and accusations.”

Crosby was appointed to the inaugural chairman position at the state Gaming Commission by Gov. Deval Patrick in December 2011. His term was set to expire in 2019.

Commissioner Gayle Cameron will serve as interim chair of the Commission until a permanent replacement is appointed.

Initial reaction from industry observers appeared to be one of dismay, with several pointing to the high regulatory and responsible gambling quality achieved by the Commissioners under Crosby’s leadership, and his personal dedication and commitment to the Commission’s activities..

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