In a stunning turn of events, Running Aces Casino & Racetrack has filed a federal racketeering lawsuit against three tribal casinos, including Treasure Island Resort & Casino. The lawsuit, which was filed in the District Court of Minnesota, alleges that the defendants engaged in a pattern of illegal behavior designed to unfairly compete with and ultimately drive Running Aces out of business.
According to the lawsuit, the defendants – which also include Mystic Lake Casino Hotel and Grand Casino Mille Lacs – conspired to fix prices, engage in predatory pricing practices, and engage in other illegal activities in order to drive customers away from Running Aces and towards their own casinos. The lawsuit further alleges that the defendants used their collective market power to intimidate vendors and prevent them from doing business with Running Aces.
In a statement released to the press, Running Aces CEO Taro Saito stated, “We have worked hard to build a successful business here at Running Aces, and we will not stand idly by while our competitors engage in illegal activities designed to drive us out of business. We believe that the evidence will show that the defendants engaged in a concerted effort to harm our business, and we are confident that justice will ultimately prevail.”
The lawsuit seeks a variety of remedies, including monetary damages, injunctive relief, and treble damages under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). If successful, the lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the Minnesota casino industry, as it could potentially force the defendants to change their business practices and compensate Running Aces for the harm caused.
In response to the lawsuit, a spokesperson for Treasure Island Resort & Casino stated, “We categorically deny the allegations made by Running Aces, and we will vigorously defend ourselves in court. We have always operated our business in compliance with the law, and we are confident that the court will ultimately find in our favor.”
The lawsuit has sent shockwaves through the Minnesota casino industry, leaving many industry experts wondering how such a legal battle will play out in the coming months. With the stakes so high and the allegations so serious, this lawsuit could ultimately reshape the competitive landscape of the Minnesota casino industry for years to come. Only time will tell how this legal saga will ultimately unfold.
