The company responded by saying that it’s committed to maintaining a “safe and respectful culture” for its 23,000 employees and painting the story as the latest salvo in a high-profile battle between Wynn and his ex-wife, Elaine Wynn. And Steve Wynn told the Journal: “The idea that I ever assaulted any woman is preposterous.”

But now there’s a dark cloud hanging over Wynn Boston Harbor: a bombshell Wall Street Journal report alleging that the casino mogul engaged in a pattern of sexual misconduct as CEO of Wynn Resorts.

Just days ago, Steve Wynn was crowing to investors and analysts about how smoothly construction on his $2.4 billion casino and hotel project in Everett was going, with a 2019 opening in sight.


Here in Boston, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission says it’s taking these allegations seriously. The agency quickly issued its own statement, pledging that its investigations and enforcement bureau would review the matter to determine the “appropriate next steps.”

The agency also said ensuring “suitability is an active and ongoing process.” It’s language a bureaucrat might love, but not casino-license holders. Translation: Just because you passed your background tests when we approved your license doesn’t mean we can’t go back and revisit the decision if new information comes to light. (A Wynn spokesman says the company is already in contact with the agency and will fully cooperate in any review.)

It’s hard to know what the gaming commission will do if its investigation uncovers “suitability” issues. These are uncharted waters for the state’s nascent gambling industry. But one thing is for sure: This is not the way Steve Wynn would want to kick off his long-awaited entrance into the Boston market.

Jon Chesto can be reached at jon.chesto@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter @jonchesto.