Terrance K. Watanabe Trial Continues
The Rio, Las Vegas
Terrance K. Watanabe, a high roller who has apparently racked up debts of over $14.7 million in casinos such as Caesars Palace and the Rio (two Harrah’s owned resorts) is still in court facing criminal theft charges.
The case has been rumbling on since May, but Watanabe’s allegation that Harrah’s employees plied him with drink and drugs has slowed down the case, as Harrah’s have had to call in a national law firm. It’s believed that if Watanabe’s allegations are true, Harrah’s name as a respectable gambling company could forever tarnished.
The company have refused to comment on whether they’re conducting an internal regulation regarding Watanabe’s allegations, but Harrah’s spokesman Gary Thompson has noted; “we have in the past hired outside law firms to investigate serious allegations that have been brought against any of our properties.”
Watanabe’s lawyers are arguing that their client was under the influence of alcohol and prescription painkillers, noting that Watanabe was so affected by this cocktail of drink and drugs he would have been “incapable of forming the criminal intent” to avoid his gambling debts.
If Harrah’s are found guilty of plying Watanabe with alcohol and drugs, they could face the wrath of the Nevada Gaming Commission.
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