Sex and Casino Gambling Merge Too Closely for Nevada Regulators

Sex and gambling have been inching toward a happy merging in Nevada for some time.

Nevada overseers are acting to strip a Las Vegas bar of its license to host slot machines after sex acts, including intercourse, were observed in public areas of the bar by undercover agents. Snick's Place, which markets itself as Las Vegas' oldest gay bar, was investigated by the Nevada Gaming Control Board after complaints were received, and patrons having sex with one another was seen within (gasp!) sight of the bar's fifteen slot machines.

The Board filed seven violations against owner Dominic Vitale, each of which may draw a fine as hefty as $100,000. The gaming license may also be revoked, despite the owner's firing of the bartender on duty and complete cooperation with authorities, including providing security tapes.

Sex and gambling have been inching toward a happy merging in Nevada for some time. Last year, the Girls of Glitter Gulch strip club applied for a gaming license, and Board members found the need to extend a lengthy undercover investigation, saying they needed to inspect the club in more detail. Penthouse magazine announced it was shopping for a Strip casino to purchase.

Also, area strip clubs provided eye candy for resort casino swimming pools under business agreements, and speculation arose after the popularity of the Palms Casino's Playboy Club hit that dealers working in the nude may be a part of casino floors in the near future.

But, while Board members might be tempted by the prospect of gorgeous naked young women, uncensored homosexual acts brought out their conservative side, and Snick's Place may pay the price. Being at the forefront of a revolution always leads to casualties.