2nd Circuit won't let gambling addict sue Mashantucket Tribe

Thursday, June 6, 2013  

A gambling addict can't sue the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut due to sovereign immunity, the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals said on Tuesday.

Bruce Tassone said he lost nearly $3 million while gambling at the Foxwoods Resort Casino before asking the tribe to exclude him from the facility in 2004. He ended up serving 18 months in federal prison for stealing from his employer to cover his debts.

Tassone returned to the casino in 2010 and later accused the tribe of violating state and federal laws for not excluding him again. The 2nd Circuit, however, said the tribe has not waived its immunity, nor has Congress abrogate the tribe's immunity.

Turtle Talk has posted documents from the case, Tassone v. Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Get the Story:
U.S. appeals court rejects gambler's claim against Foxwoods (The New London Day 6/5)

2nd Circuit Order:
Tassone v. Foxwoods Resort Casino (June 4, 2013)