Aruze Corp., Japan’s biggest gambling machine company, said it would press ahead with plans to collaborate with partner Steve Wynn on a major resort in Las Vegas.
Tokyo-based Aruze, however, may need to contest charges of tax evasion at home before the project can be completed; this according to the Las Vegas Sun. Aruze Corp. is accused of hiding income from its overseas subsidiaries to evade Japanese taxes. The Tokyo District Court has asked for more documentation, and, according to Aruze spokesperson Hironio Ito, the company expected a decision last month.
'As of now, there is no change in our previous plans,' Ito said. The company expects a ruling by the end of April, he said.
However, any adverse ruling in Tokyo could block or delay a Nevada gaming license.
'The trial is continuing, and we are still insisting we have done nothing wrong,' Ito said. 'There's been a delay in the verdict, because we were asked to file detailed documents again.'
Japanese tax authorities notified the company of the tax-evasion charge on Dec. 27, 2000, Aruze said.
An Aruze division paid $260 million for a 50% stake in the Le Reve casino project in Las Vegas, which is planned to be a major resort at the site of the Desert Inn.
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