The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) today revealed a CAD $350,000 penalty imposed on Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto for what the AGCO described as numerous breaches of provincial gaming regulations.
Unruly Gathering on Gaming Area
The penalties are specifically related to an unplanned after-party electronic dance music event that took place in the early morning hours on the casino floor.
The dance event took place on September 27, 2024, attracting thousands of attendees, and was held in the theater next to the casino.
The event featured Boris Brejcha, a DJ and music producer from Germany. Brejcha often dons a joker mask at his performances, inspired by a Carnival of Venice style.
Customers Ascending On Slot Machines
The AGCO stated today that the event spiraled out of control. There was unruly conduct, extensive intoxication, various criminal and health incidents both within and outside the venue. Among those were claimed attacks, drug overdoses, and incidents of public indecency.
Officers on duty were present at the party, but more police and emergency services needed to be summoned to assist in handling the situation. Inability to uphold control jeopardizes the security, safety, and integrity of the casino area. AGCO stated today that the operator did not timely inform AGCO about what transpired at the event, as required.
$350K Fine
"Casino operators have a fundamental duty to control their gaming environment,” said Dr. Karin Schnarr, Chief Executive Officer and Registar, AGCO. “Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto’s lapses in this incident compromised the safety of patrons and the security and integrity of the gaming floor.”
Casino management authorized a spontaneous request from the performer to hold an after-party on the gaming floor, where the artist celebrated with 400 guests. The artist showcased their work among active table games and gaming devices, lacking any previous risk evaluation or preparation.
Security staff lost command of the scenario, with reports from witnesses stating that a participant was climbing on top of slot machines. Great Canadian has 15 days to contest the Registrar’s ruling.
We respect the AGCO’s decision and fully acknowledge its role in setting and enforcing the standards that guide the gaming industry,” said a Great Casino Resort Toronto spokesperson. “We take full responsibility for this incident, and we have acted thoroughly to address it and have imposed multiple compliance safeguards to prevent a similar incident. Our entire organization remains firmly committed to the highest standards of compliance and accountability.”