The casino mogul Kazuo Okada, mainly associated with the ventures of the company Universal Entertainment and the Wynn Resorts issues, has been making the headlines recently.
Yesterday, the Mississippi gaming officials settled down around the decision of renewing the license of the Japanese businessman.
Mississippi regulators made that decision in contrast to the ongoing bribery investigation that is currently going on. Those who keep themselves informed about the legal issues that have befallen Okada’s Universal Entertainment, know that the company is thoroughly investigated by FBI.
Mississippi gambling regulators supported their choice with the argument that they have conducted their own investigation before announcing their final decision. They went on to say that Okada’s gambling products will remain available within the state of Mississippi and during the discussions as to whether to give him the nod, they based their decision on the findings of their own search without allowing to be confused by the numerous speculations in the media.
The “suitability” status of Mr. Okada and his license in particular was a subject to renewal as it has been valid for the last nine years. Meanwhile, the Mississippi Gaming Commission renewed the license of Aruze Gaming America. The company is manufacturing slot machines and it is under Okada’s control as well.
However, the license of Aruze Gaming America in California is due to expire and the members of California Gaming Control Commission have to review its extension no later than next month. Back in 2013, the company received regulator’s nod mere days after the bribery investigation had started. Nevertheless, California officials did not include any special clauses for the license.
Mr. Okada attended the hearing related to the Mississippi license renewal. It has been his first appearance in public since the start of the bribery investigation back in 2012. He was accused of having tried to bribe a member of the Philippines gambling regulator and get significant financial benefits for his Manila Bay project.
Mr. Okada seemed discontent with the fact that journalists have tarnished his reputation and created him an image of “the bad guy”. That is why he refused to answer any questions after the hearing, which took place in Biloxi.
Although the Mississippi gambling regulators conducted their own investigation, Allen Godfrey, the Executive Director of the Commission, did not deny that the allegation was “concerning” but he added that “until there is something I can hang my hat on I can’t act”.
