Maine Casino Inspectors Alleged Toxic Work Environment Created by Gambling Control Unit Executive Director
Casino inspectors in Maine have come forward with serious allegations against Milton Champion, the current Executive Director of the state’s Gambling Control Unit. In an open letter published recently, the inspectors expressed their lack of confidence in Champion, accusing him of creating a toxic work environment and highlighting numerous issues that have arisen under his leadership.
The letter, signed by all nine casino inspectors, detailed the lack of respect they felt from Champion towards their legal rights and processes as outlined in their union contract. The inspectors claimed that Champion had retaliated against both the group as a whole and individual members, leading to a toxic and hostile workplace environment.
The inspectors are now calling for Champion to be removed from his position, citing a lack of competence in running the department effectively. Among the serious concerns raised in the letter is Champion’s alleged attempts to bypass the oversight of the Maine Gambling Control Board in making important decisions. Additionally, he has been accused of trying to deregulate the state’s casinos without consulting the public or stakeholders.
The role of a casino inspector is crucial in ensuring that gaming properties adhere to all relevant regulations, including inspecting table games, gaming equipment, and cashier cages. However, the inspectors have also expressed ongoing complaints about incorrect pay and scheduling issues. They claim that Champion has refused to address these concerns, leading to disruptions in their oversight of casino operations on Sundays and Mondays.
Maine Gambling Control Board Chair Steven Silver has acknowledged the letter and expressed concerns about the scheduling changes implemented by Champion. While Silver noted that operations had been profitable under Champion’s leadership, he also mentioned that any issues regarding the work environment fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Public Safety. It remains uncertain whether the Board will take any action in response to the letter.
This is not the first time Champion has faced controversy during his tenure. In May 2023, he served a one-week suspension after past tweets surfaced, revealing his use of racist and sexist language. Despite this previous incident, Champion’s leadership has come under renewed scrutiny following the recent allegations made by the casino inspectors.
In conclusion, the situation in Maine’s Gambling Control Unit is tense as inspectors publicly denounce their Executive Director, Milton Champion, for creating a toxic work environment. The allegations of misconduct and lack of competence have raised serious concerns about the future of the department and the oversight of the state’s casinos. It remains to be seen how the Maine Gambling Control Board and other authorities will address these allegations and ensure a fair and respectful work environment for all employees.