The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) handed gambling operator William Hill a massive £6.2 million ($8.6 million USD) fine for violating protocols designed to protect against money laundering and problem gambling. It’s yet another sign that the Commission is cracking down very hard on any and all operators within its jurisdiction.
The fine was issued for activities that occurred over a two-year period that ended back in August of 2016 and focused on 10 customers who used profits from illegal activities to gamble with William Hill. All told, the dirty players won approximately £1.2 million ($1.67 million USD) with their ill-gotten gains.
William Hill’s fine was broken up into two parts to reflect the nature of the activities that were missed by the company’s compliance officers. £5 million ($6.96 million USD) was the result of violating anti-money laundering protocols. The other £1.2 million was meant to pay back the victims of the perpetrator’s crimes.
In statement to the UK Guardian, William Hill’s chief executive, Philip Bowcock pointed out that the company had changed procedures and was ready to move forward saying:
William Hill has fully co-operated with the commission throughout this process, introducing new and improved policies and increased levels of resourcing. We have also committed to an independent process review and will work to implement any recommendations that emerge from that review.
Neil McArthur, executive director of the UKGC was very stern in his assessment of the situation saying:
This was a systemic failing at William Hill which went on for nearly two years and today’s penalty package – which could exceed £6.2m – reflects the seriousness of the breaches.
This was the second largest fine ever issued by the Commission. The largest was issued last year to 888 Holdings for £7.8 million ($10.86 million USD).