By Marshall Griffin, St. Louis Public Radio
Jefferson City, Mo. – The Missouri Gaming Commission has decided not to take any disciplinary action against former Pinnacle Entertainment CEO Dan Lee for making a political threat to a St. Louis County official.
Lee was accused of angrily telling an aide to St. Louis County Councilman Steve Stenger that Stenger's vote in favor of a competing casino's zoning request would not be forgotten.
Gaming Commission Executive Director Gene McNary calls Lee's actions an isolated incident.
"The commission thought it was inappropriate; although not in violation of any rule or regulation...his license will remain intact...he's already been asked to resign by Pinnacle," McNary said.
Lee will, however, have to pay for the cost of the investigation, which is about $16,800.
"He was very unhappy (about the county council vote), but the point of the investigation was that it did not amount to any kind of illegal act, nor was it a regulatory violation," McNary said.
Lee apologized in a letter to regulators, stating that he paid a high price for losing his composure. He also says he'll spend time with his family while pursuing new opportunities in the gaming industry.