High-Stakes Gambler's Lawsuit Against MGM Over Alleged Drugging Heads to Trial

Dwight Manley, a California real estate developer and former sports agent, is suing MGM Resorts, alleging that his drink was spiked with ketamine while playing high-limit blackjack at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in December 2021. Manley filed a $75 million lawsuit against MGM Resorts in 2023, claiming he sustained injuries and saw his credit line increased by millions of dollars while under the influence.

Judge Miranda Du found that Manley offered evidence to create a genuine issue of fact that the cocktail he was served by MGM's employee was poisoned. Manley regularly gambled at the MGM Grand from 1990 to 2021, receiving VIP treatment including private jet travel and free premium lodging. On his last trip, Manley ordered an Old-Fashioned cocktail and remarked that it tasted bitter immediately upon tasting it. After consuming the drink, Manley became disoriented, broke an ashtray, and cut his hand without noticing the blood or feeling pain.

Despite his condition, Manley signed three markers totaling $3.5 million to wager. After returning to California, Manley tested positive for ketamine. MGM denied the allegations, arguing that Manley's reason for claiming he was drugged was to avoid paying his $3 million markers.