Bally’s Chicago Casino Construction Halted Amid Vendor Scrutiny
Construction of the Bally’s Chicago casino in River West has been temporarily suspended following an order from the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB). The IGB issued the stop-work order after discovering an unauthorized waste hauler operating at the site. The hauler, D&P Construction Co., has alleged past ties to organized crime.
The Finding and Inquiry
The IGB initiated its investigation after a report highlighted D&P-branded dumpsters at the 30-acre construction site. D&P Construction Co., based in Melrose Park, had been subcontracted by the Chicago Community Builders Collective, a minority-led partnership overseeing general contracting for the $1.7 billion casino complex.
Did you know? The Chicago Outfit, also known as the Outfit, is the name for Chicago’s Italian-American organized crime syndicate. It rose to power in the early 20th century under figures like Al Capone.
The Chicago Sun-Times contacted regulators after observing the D&P dumpsters. The company had previously been linked by the FBI to john “No Nose” DiFronzo and his brother, Peter DiFronzo, both identified as leaders in the Chicago Outfit.
IGB’s Statement and Concerns
The IGB released a statement emphasizing the seriousness of the situation:
The Illinois Gaming Board issued an order to cease construction work on the Bally’s Chicago permanent casino in connection with a pending IGB investigation into the use of undisclosed and unapproved vendors at the construction site.Illinois gaming Board
The statement further elaborated on the potential risks:
This raises several serious concerns as the IGB does not know who is associated with D&P and if any of those associations could perhaps violate the Act or rules.Illinois Gaming Board
Bally’s Response
Bally’s has acknowledged the IGB’s action and expressed its commitment to cooperation.
We appreciate the diligence and action of IGB. this is the process at work. We look forward to working with the IGB to eliminate the possibility of it happening again.Bally’s
Zero-Tolerance Policy
The IGB maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding vendors with criminal ties. this policy underscores the importance of maintaining integrity within Illinois’ gaming industry, which has historically faced challenges related to organized crime infiltration.
pro Tip: Regulatory bodies like the IGB ofen conduct thorough background checks on vendors to ensure compliance and prevent potential risks. Transparency and adherence to regulations are crucial for maintaining trust and integrity in regulated industries.
Project background
Bally’s broke ground on the Chicago casino project last year.The location is anticipated to be the largest casino complex in Illinois, promising meaningful economic impact and job creation for the region.
