Nevada Authorities Impose Hefty Fine on Riverside Casino for Excessive Use of Force

The Nevada Gaming Commission has levied a substantial $500,000 fine against Riverside Resort & Casino following two incidents involving the excessive use of force by security personnel. The repercussions of these incidents led to the termination of several employees, including the director responsible for their hiring.

The first incident, outlined in the complaint, occurred in July 2022, when a security officer confronted a visitor who refused to vacate an area where slot machines were being serviced. The confrontation escalated, resulting in the officer forcefully restraining the visitor, causing leg injuries that necessitated hospitalization.

In another distressing event a month later, four Riverside security guards apprehended a casino staff member suspected of smoking marijuana while on duty, albeit without sufficient evidence. The encounter turned violent when the staff member attempted to leave, leading to physical altercations where the individual was pushed to the ground, subjected to blows, and subsequently lost consciousness after hitting his head on a metal wall while in a holding cell.

As a consequence, the security personnel involved faced legal ramifications, including arrests for the use of excessive force and unlawful detention. Though the charges were later adjusted and ultimately dropped, the individuals were dismissed from their positions at the casino. The incidents underscore the importance of upholding safety and ethical conduct within gaming establishments, with the hefty fine serving as a reminder of the serious consequences of misconduct.