Mass. Gaming: Wynn Execs Tried Hiding Misconduct Allegations

EVERETT, MA — Management at Wynn Resorts attempted to conceal sexual misconduct accusations against the company's founder, Steve Wynn, according to a nearly 200-page report released by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission Tuesday.

Gaming officials found that Wynn executives were aware of the allegations against Wynn but did not investigate them as company policy dictated. They did not inform the full Wynn Resorts board, or did they report the allegations to the audit and compliance committees, according to the report.

The commission began investigating whether Wynn Resorts was suitable to hold a gaming license after allegations of sexual misconduct against Wynn were made public in a Wall Street Journal story in early 2018. Wynn denied the allegations but stepped down as chairman and CEO and sold his shares.

Gaming regulators began three days of hearings Tuesday into whether Wynn Resorts is suitable to hold a gambling license in Massachusetts. The company has taken steps to distance its $2.6 billion resort and casino in Everett from its namesake, changing the name to Encore Boston Harbor and pledging to make its staff 50 percent women. It also successfully removed Steve Wynn as a "qualifier" for the license.

Speaking to gambling officials Tuesday, Wynn Resorts CEO Matt Maddox said he was "deeply remorseful" Wynn's accusers felt "powerless." In a statement released after the hearing, Wynn Resorts said anyone who was aware of allegations of sexual assault against Wynn and did not investigate is "no longer with the company."

"Wynn Resorts has made countless changes throughout the organization, including a refresh of our Board of Directors; executive leadership changes; a wholesale update to our policies for identifying, reporting and addressing reports of sexual harassment or assault; enhanced training initiatives; and a renewed focus on creating a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace culture," the statement read in part.

Nevada gaming regulators fined Wynn Resorts $20 million, the highest fine in that state's history, earlier this year for failing to pursue claims of sexual misconduct against Steve Wynn. The company was allowed to keep its gaming license in Nevada.

Encore Boston Harbor remains on track to open this summer.