National Harbor brawl raises security questions for MGM

Dec. 21, 2016 | G. Michael Dobbs
news@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD – In a response to a question from Reminder Publications, a MGM spokesperson did not say exactly how security would be handled at the  Springfield casino in light of a brawl that took place on Dec. 8, the public opening of the company’s National Harbor casino in Maryland.

Cell phone video of the brawl involving a group of men spread on the Internet.

Las Vegas Review-Journal staff photographer Chase Stevens posted one of the videos that clearly showed several men fighting. Another video from a different angle revealed how one man threw a chair into a crowd.

Caution: Video content is not suitable for all viewers.

This reporter posed the question, “The question with Springfield’s casino having the component of being easily accessed from the street – in light of what happened in Maryland – what is MGM planning to do security wise to prevent a similar event from happening here?”

The answer was “MGM Resorts is considered the gold standard when it comes to guest service and experience at a casino resort. This includes our team of highly professional security officers, who are hired and trained to deliver excellent service and safety. We collaborate closely with local law enforcement and authorities in the markets where our resorts operate, which is a best practice for any operator of a major entertainment venue.

“The Grand Opening of MGM National Harbor was an exciting and monumental night for MGM and the state of Maryland. A minor incident that evening was quickly addressed. And, we are thrilled by the continuous positive responses from our guests and the community since the resort opened its doors.”

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