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MGM Resorts Sued for Millions in Losses Over Suspected Drink Spiking
In the world of casino gambling, indulging in a cocktail or two is nothing out of the ordinary. However, a recent lawsuit has shaken the industry’s high-roller circuit, as a California real estate developer, and former sports agent, Dwight Manley, claims that his gambling escapade took a treacherous turn due to a spiked drink at the MGM Grand in December 2020. Manley has taken legal action against MGM Resorts, seeking a staggering $75 million in damages. He has gone to great lengths, hiring private investigators and even offering a substantial $500,000 reward to unmask the individual responsible for the alleged drugging.
The Tale of Allegations
Dwight Manley, a familiar face at MGM properties since 1990, enjoyed VIP treatment throughout his two-decade gambling stint, complete with private jets and luxurious accommodations. On his last visit, Manley planned to test his luck at the blackjack table and participate in a poker tournament.
However, Manley’s fateful night took a dark turn when he ordered an Old-Fashioned cocktail while playing blackjack. The suit claims that the moment he took a sip, he sensed an unusual bitterness in his drink. What followed was far from a routine evening of high-stakes gaming.
A Mysterious Turn of Events
Post-consumption of the suspect cocktail, Manley’s world spiraled into disarray. He became disoriented, inadvertently breaking an ashtray and injuring his hand, seemingly without noticing the blood or pain. Casino management, rather than addressing the issue, shifted him to another blackjack table to continue playing. During this tumultuous period, the casino host allegedly informed Manley’s friends that the pit bosses had expressed concerns about his erratic behavior. Nevertheless, Manley managed to sign three markers, wagering a total of $3.5 million.
Upon exiting the casino and heading towards the Venetian, Manley’s condition deteriorated drastically. Witnesses noted that he could barely stand, stumbling several times during the walk. Instead of venturing to their intended destination, the group returned to their villa, where Manley collapsed, suffering from dizziness and nausea.
A Shocking Revelation: Ketamine in the Mix
The following day, upon their return to California, Manley underwent a drug test, which came back positive for ketamine. This tranquilizer, notorious for inducing hallucinogenic effects, left Manley feeling disconnected and out of control. In response, he adamantly stated that he had never knowingly ingested ketamine, prompting him to file a police report in Las Vegas. The lawsuit further asserts that MGM failed to exercise due diligence towards Manley, given the casino host’s longstanding relationship with him, evident signs of erratic behavior, and a bleeding episode at the gaming table that went unnoticed.
As this legal battle unfolds, MGM Resorts continues its efforts to recoup the outstanding $440,000 marker amount from Manley. So far, the casino conglomerate has remained tight-lipped about the lawsuit, though their legal team has attempted to have the claim dismissed.
