Casinos are all about fun and excitement, but let’s be honest — we’re all hoping to win big. Unfortunately, even hitting the jackpot doesn’t always mean you’ll walk away with the money. Just ask Katrina Bookman.
Her story is now one of the most infamous in gambling history. While playing at Resorts World Casino in New York, Katrina thought she’d hit the jackpot of a lifetime: nearly $43 million. It would have been the largest slot machine payout in U.S. history.
But when she tried to cash out, she was told the unthinkable. A casino employee informed her that the slot machine had malfunctioned, and her record-breaking win wasn’t valid.
What should’ve been a life-changing victory turned into a heartbreaking ordeal for Katrina Bookman.
A Nightmare Instead of a Jackpot
But Katrina’s excitement didn’t last long. When she went to collect her winnings, she was told to return the next day. The next morning, casino staff broke the devastating news: her win didn’t count because the machine had malfunctioned.
Instead of her multi-million-dollar payout, the casino offered her a free steak dinner and $2.25 — the amount she supposedly won after the malfunction. Katrina was heartbroken. She had grown up in foster care, been homeless as a teenager, and raised four kids as a single mom. This win felt like it was finally her big break.
Katrina Fights Back
Katrina didn’t accept the casino’s offer. She hired an attorney and filed a lawsuit against Resorts World Casino, its parent company Genting New York LLC, and the slot machine’s developer, IGT. Her lawyer argued that the casino should pay her at least the machine’s maximum payout of $6,500 if they wouldn’t honor the $42.9 million.
The casino, however, pointed to a disclaimer on the machine that read, “Malfunctions void all pays and plays.” This, they claimed, meant they weren’t liable for the error.
The Court’s Decision
After years of delays, including setbacks caused by COVID-19, the case went to court. Unfortunately for Katrina, the judge ruled in favor of the casino. The court determined that the malfunction voided her win, and she walked away with nothing.
Can Casinos Refuse to Pay?
Katrina’s case might sound extreme, but it’s not the first time something like this has happened. Similar stories have occurred, like the case of Pauline McKee, a 90-year-old who thought she’d won $41 million on a penny slot in Iowa, only to be told it was a mistake.
Slot machines are complex computers, and sometimes they malfunction. When they do, casinos have the right to refuse payouts, as long as they follow gaming commission rules and post clear disclaimers.
The Takeaway
Katrina’s story is a tough reminder that even when you think you’ve hit it big, things might not be as they seem. Slot machines are fun, but they’re also unpredictable. Always check the rules before you play, and remember that big wins can come with big disappointments.
Katrina’s case may not have had a happy ending, but it’s a story every gambler should know before stepping into a casino.
