Executives from MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment became founding members of the Sports Wagering Integrity Monitoring Association (SWIMA).

SWIMA is a not-for-profit organisation designed as a collaborative body to partner state and tribal gaming regulators, federal, state and tribal law enforcement officials, and other stakeholders to detect and prevent fraud and other illegal activity related to sports betting.

George Rover, former Assistant Attorney General and Deputy Director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, was appointed as Chief Integrity Officer and will oversee day-to-day operations.

He said: “We are excited to roll out the first Integrity Monitoring Association in the United States, ensuring a safe and secure betting environment for consumers across the country.

“We look forward to partnering with gaming regulators and law enforcement in all states that legalise sports betting to undermine fraud and manipulation and protect the integrity of sports betting.”

Sara Slane, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for the American Gaming Association (AGA) said: “The announcement comes at a critical time as dozens of states and sovereign tribal nations are poised to pursue legal sports betting in 2019.

“Moving forward, SWIMA will provide an important hub for all stakeholders to work together, further demonstrating the industry’s commitment to upholding integrity across all facets of a legal, regulated sports betting market.”

Stephen Martino, Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer for MGM Resorts International and formerly Chief Gaming Regulator in Maryland and Kansas, and Jan Jones, Executive VP of Public Policy and Corporate Responsibility for Caesars and formerly the Mayor of Las Vegas, will serve as SWIMA’s initial Board of Trustees.