Katrina Bookman felt a rush of excitement at Resorts World Casino in New York. She had just won a $42.9 million jackpot. However, her elation was short-lived. When she attempted to claim her winnings, she faced an unexpected and disheartening turn of events.
Instead of the life-changing prize she anticipated, Bookman was informed that the slot machine had malfunctioned. The celebration turned into a confusion-filled nightmare as she was asked to return the following day for an official ruling. The dream of newfound wealth quickly faded, leaving her with disappointment and uncertainty.
What Happened At The Casino?
Katrina Bookman was at Resorts World Casino in New York playing Sphinx Wild, an engaging slot game. She put in just 40 cents. To her astonishment, the machine alerted her to a jackpot win of $42.9 million. It was a life-changing amount, promising a new future for her and her family.
However, when Bookman tried to claim her winnings, casino management said the machine had malfunctioned. She was directed to review the venue’s “official ruling” and return the next day. As she left, she overheard a staff member saying she “didn’t win nothing.”
The Disheartening Offer
When she returned the next day, Bookman was horrified to find she was only offered a complimentary steak dinner and the supposed $2.25 winnings. The casino cited a machine malfunction as the reason for the error.
Bookman’s background made the situation even harder. She had been raised in foster care, experienced homelessness as a teenager, and was a single mother to four kids. The malfunction felt especially cruel given her struggle-filled life.
“I kept thinking about my family. The struggle I’ve been through; it’s hard to cope,” she shared in an interview with WABC.
The Legal Battle
Bookman decided to take legal action and sued Resorts World Casino, Genting New York LLC, and IGT, the software provider, for $42,949,672.76 in damages. She claimed the ordeal had damaged her nervous system and left her “embarrassed, anxious, and depressed.”
Her attorney, Alan Ripka, argued that Bookman was entitled to at least $6,500, the maximum slot machine win. “The machine takes your money when you lose. It ought to pay it when you win,” Ripka stated.
The casino apologized for the inconvenience and maintained that the machine had a disclaimer stating, “Malfunctions void all pays and plays.” This disclaimer was noted by the New York State Gaming Commission as being displayed on the machine.
Historical Precedents
A similar case involved Pauline McKee, a 90-year-old woman in Illinois. She thought she won $41 million on a slot machine, but was informed it was a malfunction. Her case went to the Iowa Supreme Court, which ruled in favor of the casino because of a malfunction disclaimer on the machine.
These cases highlight how important it is for players to understand that slot machines operate on random number generators (RNGs). Wins and losses are unpredictable, and malfunctions, though rare, can occur.
Bookman’s case serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of gambling and the importance of being aware of the fine print.
Current Status of the Case
As of 2023, there is no clear outcome for Bookman’s lawsuit. It’s possible that the case has been dismissed or is still ongoing, possibly delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Katrina Bookman’s experience underscores the need for transparency and fairness in the gambling industry. It also serves as a reminder for players to always be cautious and informed.
Katrina Bookman’s experience is a stark reminder of the unpredictability and pitfalls associated with gambling. The malfunction of the slot machine that promised her millions turned her dream into a distressing ordeal. Her legal battle underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in the gaming industry. Until the case reaches a resolution, it stands as a cautionary tale for all players. It highlights the need to understand the fine print and the risks involved.
Source: Casino
