$2 Million Guarantee Event at Borgata Under Investigation for Counterfeit Chips
On Friday, tournament officials suspended the Borgata Winter Open $2 Million Guarantee for 24 hours due to the tournament being "compromised."
According to Joe Lupo, Senior Vice President of Operations for Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, tournament officials and the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE) should reach a resolution after a 24-hour hour investigation.
"We have reason to believe the tournament was compromised," Lupo said. "There's nothing more important than ensuring the integrity of the tournament. All other tournaments are moving forward with full confidence."
Lisa Spengler, a spokeswoman for the NJDGE, told The Associated Press that the division and New Jersey State Police "are aware of a situation involving counterfeit chips."
Prior to the suspension, play was scheduled to resume at noon on Friday. Allard Broedelet leads the remaining 27 players with 10.315 million chips - more than 10 percent of the chips in play. The tournament attracted 4,812 players, generating a total prize pool of $2,407,000. Thus far, 423 players have busted in the money, earning a minimum of $1,082.
Editor's Note (4:36 p.m. EST): Lupo added the following to his previous statement:
We are confident in proceeding with all other events in the Winter Poker Open and play will continue as scheduled.
We deeply regret any inconvenience or concern this causes our players. We are determined to investigate this incident thoroughly, and will work with law enforcement to prosecute any illegal activity to the fullest extent of the law in the event any findings are discovered."
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