Connect with us

North America

Nevada Supreme Court Rejects Steve Wynn’s Defamation Case

Published

on

Steve Wynn

Nevada Supreme Court Dismisses Steve Wynn’s Defamation Lawsuit Against Associated Press

The battle between casino mogul Steve Wynn and the Associated Press (AP) reached its final chapter as the Nevada Supreme Court dismissed Wynn’s defamation lawsuit. This landmark ruling underscores the power of anti-SLAPP laws designed to protect free speech, even against the mightiest of public figures. As Wynn continues to deny the allegations against him, the court’s decision signals a resounding message on the boundaries of media and public interest.

Background of the Defamation Lawsuit

Steve Wynn, the former chairman and CEO of Wynn Resorts, filed a defamation lawsuit against the Associated Press following a 2018 news story that reported allegations of sexual misconduct made against him by Hulina Kuta. Kuta claimed that Wynn had raped her in the 1970s, leading her to give birth in a gas station restroom—a claim later proven false. She also alleged that Wynn had stolen valuable artworks, including Picasso’s Le Rêve, and bizarrely claimed she was the model for the painting, despite it being created a decade before her birth.

Wynn’s lawsuit argued that the AP should have recognized the implausibility of Kuta’s accusations and should have included more context to question her credibility. He contended that the AP’s failure to do so was tantamount to libel. However, the Nevada Supreme Court ultimately upheld a lower court’s decision to dismiss the case, citing Nevada’s anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) statutes.

Understanding Anti-SLAPP Statutes

Anti-SLAPP laws are designed to protect individuals and media outlets from lawsuits intended to silence or intimidate them. These statutes safeguard the freedom of speech and ensure that public figures cannot easily use their power to suppress legitimate criticism or news coverage. In Wynn’s case, the Nevada Supreme Court highlighted that the AP’s story was published in good faith and served the public interest, as it addressed allegations of misconduct by a highly influential figure in Nevada’s gaming industry.

Advertisement

The seven-judge panel wrote that Wynn needed to provide “clear and convincing evidence” that the AP acted with actual malice when publishing the story. The court found no such evidence, instead ruling that the AP’s reporting was justified given the public’s right to be informed about allegations against a prominent industry leader.

Wynn’s Downfall and the Wider Implications

Steve Wynn’s reputation took a significant hit following a series of allegations reported by various media outlets, including the Wall Street Journal’s exposé, “Dozens of People Recount Pattern of Sexual Misconduct by Las Vegas Mogul Steve Wynn.” In response to the mounting accusations, Wynn resigned from his role at Wynn Resorts in 2018, a company he founded and transformed into one of the most recognizable brands in the global casino industry.

Earlier this year, Wynn agreed to pay $10 million to Nevada gaming regulators to settle a complaint alleging that his actions had damaged Nevada’s reputation and its gaming sector. The settlement, which was not an admission of guilt, also barred him from ever holding a position with any Nevada gaming company again.

The dismissal of Steve Wynn’s defamation case against the Associated Press serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role of anti-SLAPP laws in protecting journalistic freedom and public discourse. While Wynn continues to deny all allegations and has never faced criminal charges, the court’s ruling emphasizes that the media has a duty to inform the public about issues of significant interest, especially when they involve influential figures.

Advertisement

For Wynn, the decision marks the end of a legal battle but underscores the lasting impact of his alleged misconduct on his legacy. For the broader public, it reaffirms the importance of a free press in holding powerful individuals accountable, even when facing intense legal pressure.

Jerome, a valuable addition to the Gamingo.News team, brings with him extensive journalistic experience in the iGaming sector. His interest in the industry was sparked during his college years when he participated in local poker tournaments, eventually leading to his exposure to the burgeoning world of online poker and casino rooms. Jerome now utilizes his accumulated knowledge to fuel his passion for journalism, providing the team with the latest online scoops.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Gamingo.News stands as a premier digital destination dedicated to delivering top-tier news and insights in the gaming and gambling industry. This specialized media outlet garners the attention of over 120,000 readers each month, providing them with engaging content, current news, and in-depth analyses.
The platform offers extensive coverage of various facets of the gaming world, including both online and brick-and-mortar gaming, wagering, esports, updates on regulations and compliance, as well as technological innovations. Regular content includes daily news stories, press releases, unique interviews, and comprehensive reports on events.
Moreover, Gamingo.News organizes webinars pertinent to the industry and offers detailed reports, establishing itself as a comprehensive information source for those interested in learning about gaming market operators, suppliers, regulators, and professional services. The portal's main objective is to keep its large audience informed about the latest news, trends, and developments in the gaming and gambling sectors. It focuses particularly on the European igaming market but also covers significant global news, proving to be an invaluable tool for gaming professionals, operators, and enthusiasts.

For inquiries, reach out at: sales@gamingo.news

For editorial or PR submissions, contact: media@gamingo.news

Copyright © 2024 Gamingo.News.