Online Casino Canada Faces $350,000 Fine for Security Breaches After Unplanned After-Party
On September 27, 2024, an online casino Canada venue, Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, was hit with a $350,000 penalty by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) for major breaches of provincial gaming regulations. The fines stem from an unauthorized after-party held on the casino’s active gaming floor following a chaotic electronic dance music (EDM) event at the venue’s adjacent theater, which led to significant safety and operational failures.
The EDM event, initially planned as a controlled performance, descended into disorder with widespread intoxication, disruptive behavior, and multiple incidents, including assaults and medical emergencies both inside and outside the venue. Despite the presence of security personnel, the situation required additional police and emergency services to restore order.
In a poorly judged move, casino management permitted an impromptu after-party, allowing the performing artist and over 400 guests onto the gaming floor while slot machines and tables remained operational.
No risk assessment or planning preceded this decision, exacerbating the chaos.
Security Failures and Operational Breakdown
The unsanctioned after-party overwhelmed the casino’s security team, who struggled to maintain control. Reports described patrons climbing onto slot machines, underscoring the breakdown in oversight.
The AGCO also criticized the casino for failing to promptly report the incidents, a violation of regulatory requirements that compromised both patron safety and the integrity of online casino Canada operations.
Dr. Karin Schnarr, AGCO CEO and Registrar, stated in a press release,
“Operators of online casino Canada venues must ensure a secure and controlled environment. The lapses at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto endangered patrons and undermined the integrity of the gaming floor.”
Breakdown of Penalties
The AGCO identified three key violations: failure to report incidents in a timely manner, inadequate staff training and competence, and inability to manage disturbances effectively. The casino has 15 days to appeal the decision before the Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT), with the possibility of further legal consequences looming.
A History of Regulatory Issues
This fine adds to a string of penalties for Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto. In May 2024, the AGCO imposed a $51,000 fine for allowing minors to gamble, and in April 2024, a $120,000 penalty was issued for alleged cheating involving dealers and patrons. These repeated infractions highlight ongoing challenges in maintaining compliance with Ontario’s gaming regulations.
A casino spokesperson responded,
“We take this incident seriously and have implemented robust measures to prevent future lapses. Our commitment is to meet and exceed AGCO standards to ensure a safe and secure environment for all patrons.”
The incident underscores the need for stricter oversight and planning at online casino Canada venues to protect patrons and uphold regulatory standards.
