Las Vegas Sun

March 19, 2024

Gaming board issues warning about crime at Vegas pool parties, clubs

Spring Break crowd

Dave Proctor

A crowd of about 2,000 people gathered at the Palms pool for the filming of MTV’s “Spring Break” on March 20, 2012. This is the second year the resort has hosted the show, which airs starting April 2.

The Gaming Control Board has issued a warning to Las Vegas day pool parties and nightclubs about underage participants, shady fee-charging tactics, drugs, prostitution and other problems.

"Anticipating the approach of a new pool season, we believe it is necessary and appropriate to renew our admonitions and remind licensees of their responsibilities," the board said in a statement.

Day pool parties have become hot spots during the summertime, but also a hotbed for people who want to take advantage of party goers, Las Vegas police say.

The issues outlined in the warning are not new. The board sent out similar letters in 2006 and 2009, and the Hard Rock and now-closed Prive nightclub at Planet Hollywood both were fined in recent years. Activities at Prive cost Planet Hollywood $500,000 in 2009.

"From a criminal standpoint, drug use/distribution, sexual assault, violence, theft, minors and prostitution continue to be a problem," the board said. "In addition, complaints continue to be received relative to tactics used to collect fees from patrons for entry, bottle service, the handling of incapacitated individuals and restricted access for law enforcement."

While other parties lease out pools and run the day parties, the board said the casino resort holding the gaming license was responsible for making sure they follow state, local federal laws and gaming regulations. The board said it was "continuing its focus on this important matter, and we intend to hold the licensee accountable for breaches of this responsibility."

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