The Nevada Gaming Control Board has approved the return of supplier Galaxy Gaming as a Nevada licensee, two month after rejecting what it called a “train wreck” of an application submitted by former Galaxy Chairman and CEO Robert Saucier
In July, Saucier submitted the application for renewal of licensing for Galaxy, which supplies side-bet and progressive systems for table games. The board at the time claimed Saucier’s application for his own license was deceptive regarding his personal background, from the mysterious fire that destroyed the Mars Hotel and Casino in Washington, where he was president—the casino’s creditors have sued Saucier over the fact the casino had no insurance—to misrepresenting his education background.
Saucier had similar licensing difficulties in other states. He was rejected as unsuitable for licensing in Oregon, and in California, an administrative law judge recommended he be rejected for misleading regulators about where he went to school, his criminal record, outstanding lawsuits and allegedly shady business dealings.
“Saucier was evasive, and in some instances, intentionally dishonest and misleading in his response to questions,” wrote Judge Catherine Frink in the California case. “In a highly regulated industry such as gaming, the failure to be forthcoming with relevant information was inexcusable.”
After the rejection in July for license renewal in Nevada, Saucier stepped down as CEO, and was replaced as board chairman by former Gaming Control Board member and state Senator Mark Lipparelli.
With Saucier not at the helm, the board recommended full licensure for Galaxy, which was enjoined from submitting any new games for approval while its license was suspended. The final decision will be made by the Nevada Gaming Commission, which normally follows the board’s recommendations.
