Nevada Black Book Adds Bowyer, Rejects Citro Jr.

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-04-24

The Nevada Gaming Commission has voted unanimously to add illegal bookmaker Mathew Bowyer to the state’s List of Excluded Persons, while also denying Francis “Frankie” Citro Jr. a hearing to seek removal from the same list. The decisions came during a Thursday meeting focused on two very different figures tied to Nevada gaming history. Bowyer, a California-based bookmaker linked to illegal betting and money laundering investigations, became the 39th person placed in the state’s so-called Black Book. Citro, an 80-year-old man who has been on the list for decades, tried to get his name cleared but was turned down. ### What Is the Nevada Black Book? The Nevada Black Book isn’t something you can check out from a library. It’s the state’s official List of Excluded Persons, maintained by the Nevada Gaming Commission. Anyone on this list is banned from entering any casino in Nevada. That means no gambling, no walking through the lobby, not even stepping foot on the property. It’s a powerful tool to keep organized crime and shady characters out of the gaming industry. The list has been around since the 1960s, and it’s taken very seriously.  ### Who Is Mathew Bowyer? Mathew Bowyer is a California bookmaker who ran an illegal betting operation. He’s been linked to money laundering and other shady financial activities. The commission added him to the Black Book based on evidence that he posed a threat to the integrity of Nevada’s gaming industry. Bowyer didn’t show up to the hearing, and his lawyer didn’t argue against the decision. So, the vote was unanimous. He’s now the 39th person on the list, joining a group that includes mobsters, cheats, and other undesirables. ### What About Frankie Citro Jr.? Frankie Citro Jr., now 80 years old, has been on the Black Book since the 1970s. He was originally placed there for his ties to organized crime. Citro wanted a hearing to argue for his removal, claiming he’s no longer a threat. But the commission denied his request, saying he didn’t provide enough evidence to justify a hearing. It’s a tough spot for Citro, but the commission is careful about who gets off the list. Once you’re on it, it’s hard to get off. ### Why These Decisions Matter These two cases show how the Nevada Gaming Commission works to keep the industry clean. Adding Bowyer sends a message that illegal betting won’t be tolerated, even if the bookmaker operates outside Nevada. Rejecting Citro’s bid shows that the commission doesn’t easily forgive past ties to organized crime. Both decisions protect the reputation of Nevada’s casinos, which rely on trust and fairness. The Black Book is a key part of that trust, keeping out people who might try to rig the system. - **Bowyer’s addition** highlights the fight against modern illegal betting and money laundering. - **Citro’s rejection** shows the long memory of the commission when it comes to organized crime. - Both decisions reinforce the Black Book’s role as a shield for Nevada’s gaming industry. ### What’s Next? Bowyer’s name is now on the list, and he can’t enter any Nevada casino. He might face further legal trouble from federal investigations. Citro will likely appeal or try again later, but his chances look slim. The commission will keep updating the list as new threats emerge. For now, the message is clear: if you mess with Nevada gaming, you’ll end up in the Black Book.