Nevada was plagued by teamster financing, hidden ownership, employment
of individuals of questionable character and background, and the clear
links to organized crime. In this context, organized crime doesn't
just mean Mafia. Nevada improved its regulation only under the threat
of federal intervention. The federal government believed, with good
reason, that Nevada casinos were fueling organized crime throughout
the country.
Because of this history, the concern about organized crime usually
is raised whenever
legalizing gambling is discussed. Even when New Hampshire began its
state lottery in 1964,there was concern that organized crime would
take over.
Much has changed since the days when Bugsy Siegel started the first
modern casino in Las Vegas. Organized crime has become part of the
mystique of gambling but it is without significant influence today.
Las Vegas and the Flamingo are part of an historical association
with organized crime.
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