Ex-loan shark fights to escape Nevada's notorious casino Black Book after 33 years
Francis Cittro Jr., a former loan shark and illegal bookmaker, is pushing to have his name removed from Nevada's infamous 'Black Book'. The list, maintained by the Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC), bars individuals from entering casinos. Cittro Jr. has spent over three decades on the register and now wants the chance to perform in casino venues again.
His case will be reviewed during the NGC's meeting this Thursday. If successful, he would become the first living person ever to be taken off the list.
Cittro Jr. was added to the Black Book in 1991. Officials cited his 'notorious and unsavoury reputation' rather than direct casino cheating. His criminal past includes convictions for loan-sharking and illegal gambling operations.
Since then, he has worked as an entertainer at Las Vegas' Italian American Club. His act features mob-themed jokes and traditional Italian folk songs. Cittro Jr. argues that his performances should not be blocked by a ban meant for serious gaming threats.
The Black Book currently lists 38 people, following the recent addition of Wayne Nix in February 2026. Under NGC rules, inclusion applies to convicted felons, those with crimes of moral turpitude, or individuals whose reputation could harm public trust in gaming. Removal only happens after death—or, in rare cases, commission intervention.
Cittro Jr. claims bias, noting many names on the list are of Italian heritage. He also points out that other felons in Las Vegas face no such restrictions. His decade-long campaign highlights his clean record since his last conviction. Now, he hopes the NGC will grant him a historic exemption.
The NGC's decision could set a precedent for future appeals. If rejected, Cittro Jr. will remain barred from all Nevada casinos. His case underscores the strict, long-standing policies governing the state's gaming industry.
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