Local law firm to help look into Wynn
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has retained a local law firm steeped in employment law to assist the investigation into Steve Wynn and Wynn Resorts, a contract that has paid more than $50,000 so far, according to the MGC and state payment records.
“The law firm Rubin and Rudman LLP is providing support resources to the (Investigations and Enforcement Bureau) in relation to the ongoing Wynn investigation and has a limited role based on the firm’s employment law expertise,” said Elaine Driscoll, a spokeswoman for the Gaming Commission. “The firm reports to the IEB. It is anticipated that any support information resulting from their work will ultimately be included in the IEB’s final summary report to the Commission.”
According to state records, Rubin and Rudman has been paid $50,000 since March, with the amounts increasing each month. The Gaming Commission said it has an invoice for another $5,000, and said it has yet to receive an invoice for work done in June.
Denise Murphy, head of the firm’s labor and employment practice, confirmed she and the law firm are involved in the commission’s investigation, but declined to comment on the nature of the work.
Rubin and Rudman was originally brought on with a cap of $40,000, a limit that was removed by the MGC. It is unclear if a new limit has been implemented. All expenses related to the investigation into Steve Wynn and Wynn Resorts will be reimbursed by the company.
It is unclear how much the Gaming Commission has spent on the investigation overall. MGC investigators have made at least two trips to Las Vegas, including one to hear testimony from Elaine Wynn — Steve Wynn’s ex-wife — in a civil trial, and another earlier this month.
The Commission’s investigation is focused on the allegations against Steve Wynn, but also the reaction from the company and its ability to run a casino in Massachusetts. Gaming Commission chairman Steve Crosby said earlier this month he expects the investigation to finish by the end of this month.
Earlier this year, the Herald reported the Gaming Commission had hired HLT Advisory to look into the financial impact of the allegations on the casino company. HLT has been paid $25,000, according to state records.
Separate from the investigation into Wynn Resorts, commissioner Gayle Cameron is leading a review of the sexual harassment policies of all gaming licensees.
“Commissioner Gayle Cameron, in conjunction with staff from MGC’s legal division and human resources department, is conducting an overarching review of all gaming licensee’s sexual harassment policies and procedures,” Driscoll said. “This initiative is in the beginning stages, and a more extensive discussion on this important matter will be brought before the commission at a later date.”