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Gaming commission responds to report of ties to casino hopefuls

BOSTON (MyFoxBoston.com) -- The Massachusetts Gaming Commission claims their employees have been "remarkably diligent" in maintaining their commitment to integrity and transparency in the wake of a report suggesting the organization is riddled with potential conflicts of interest.

According to the Boston Herald, a whole host of gaming officials have conducted business or had social relationships with people linked to companies seeking casino licenses in Massachusetts. The list includes the commission's head lawyer, an administrative director, a commissioner, and Chairman Stephen Crosby.

The administrative director reportedly has maintained a 10-year relationship with a former treasury attorney who represents two license applicants.

Commissioner Bruce Stebbins admitted to receiving campaign donations as a Springfield city councilor from an attorney for MGM's casino bid.

Chairman Crosby came under question after he revealed his longtime friend owned land at the proposed casino site in Everett.

The Herald reports two other executive members have ties to Wynn Resorts and organizations that received money under the state gaming law. An analyst tells the newspaper this review "doesn't look good" for the Commission.

A spokesperson for the Commission sent a statement about the report to FOX 25.

"The Commission strongly encourages all employees to use an overabundance of caution in filing ethics disclosures," reads the statement. "Our staff has been remarkably diligent in their efforts to demonstrate our strong commitment to integrity and transparency. As we soon progress from the licensing phase into the regulatory phase of our operations, the Commission will continue to apply those high standards and maintain strict adherence to our Enhanced Code of Ethics."

To read more: bostonherald.com