July 15, 2025
Background of the Dispute
A blackjack player, Rahne Pistor, challenged M Resort in Henderson after he was denied winnings connected to a suited-blackjack promotional event held in August 2024. Pistor believed he was entitled to a bonus payout of $1,050 but lost his appeal with the Nevada Gaming Control Board, which ruled in favor of the casino’s actions.
The Promotional Campaign Details
From August 1 to August 24, 2024, M Resort ran a $15,000 promotion where club members received one entry ticket for every suited blackjack they hit. These tickets could be used to enter a raffle drawing and also redeemed for up to ten bonus payouts during games held on August 30, with each bonus paying out at 3-to-1 odds.
Events Leading to the Dispute
On the drawing day, Pistor bought into a blackjack table with $1,000 and played multiple hands, successfully redeeming three vouchers from hitting suited blackjacks. Shortly after claiming his third bonus, a floor supervisor asked him to leave the table and informed him he was no longer permitted to play blackjack at the casino.
Pistor’s Claim
Pistor argued that the casino unfairly denied him the full value of bonuses he had rightfully earned. He expressed that each bonus voucher was worth approximately $150 and that obtaining these vouchers involved significant risk, effort, and expense. He accused the casino of engaging in a “bait and switch” tactic, stating that by allowing him to earn the bonus tickets, the casino entered into a contract that should be honored regardless of a player’s skill level.
He further alleged that the casino’s actions included “libelous hearsay” and deceptive gaming practices.
Casino’s Position and Card Counting Allegations
Casino representatives testified that Pistor’s playing style raised suspicions of card counting. A table games supervisor commented that his betting patterns were irregular and did not match typical play. Surveillance and compliance staff concluded that Pistor was likely an advantage player, with the compliance director noting that the casino reserves the right to discourage such players.
A marketing executive explained that Pistor still needed to play many more hands to use his remaining bonus vouchers, and the vice president of finance clarified that unused tickets held no monetary value. Although Pistor won $500 in the raffle, he was not present to claim the prize, which was subsequently forfeited. The Board’s agent acknowledged that while card counting is not illegal, casinos can prohibit players they believe have an unfair advantage.
