Commonwealth Policy Center

A woman won over $1.2 million at an Atlantic City slot machine earlier this year, but the casino is refusing to pay up. Roney Beal hit the jackpot playing Wheel of Fortune at Bally’s Casino. However, the casino and manufacturer insist that she won because of a technical glitch. How convenient. Overall, the gambling industry takes in massive amounts and turns people into losers. But when someone finally wins, they aren’t always willing to pay. This isn’t the first time a big casino has refused to pay a big jackpot. Beal said in response, “Why would I ever go to a casino again in my life? Any casino? Why, if there is no hope.”  Maybe we shouldn’t be so surprised that an industry deft at deceit would cheat when faced with a few legitimate winners.