State Gaming Official Wants Delay In Licensing Foxwoods CEO

Thursday, March 21, 1996 | 11:59 a.m.

Francis J. Muska made the request in a letter Monday to John B. Meskill, executive director of the state Division of Special Revenue, which licenses gaming employees.

Foxwoods CEO G. Michael Brown has been without a permanent license for three years. His application has been held up because of federal bureaucratic delays.

"A number of issues and questions have seemed to surface at Foxwoods which could be relevant to the licensing situation," Muska wrote.

Muska's letter referred to reports in The Day of New London and The Hartford Courant on allegations that Brown and senior casino staff were covering up financial misconduct and mismanagement.

The allegations, contained in state police investigative documents, were made by Deno R. Marino, an internal auditor for Foxwoods owner, the Mashantucket Pequots, and members of the tribal council.

Meskill said Wednesday the Gaming Policy Board does not have authority over gaming licenses of individuals, a responsibility that rests with the Division of Special Revenue.

"They can certainly inquire, and I can explain my decision. And that's how I will handle it," he said.

Brown said he appreciates the need to check out the allegations and will cooperate.

"I appreciate the responsibility of special revenue to conduct a continuing review of gaming licenses, and we will certainly cooperate and comply with any investigation deemed necessary," Brown said.