Dominique John (D.J.) Lopez
Emporia
Summary
Experienced Director in gambling regulation with expertise in licensing compliance and operational management. Proven track record in leading teams and enhancing regulatory frameworks. Committed to improving operational integrity and efficiency through strategic oversight and industry standards.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Gambling
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
Topeka
09.2024 - Current
- Day-to-day regulatory oversight of sports wagering operations, Gilley's Historical Horse facility, live pari-mutuel racing/wagering and the criminal investigations unit.
- Communicated and provided testimony to legislators during legislative sessions.
- Served on panels for industry events and conferences. Most notably Seton Hall Law School to provide a regulatory perspective to young law students, including law school alumni currently representing clients in the gaming related industry.
Director of Licensing and Sports Wagering
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
Topeka
10.2022 - 09.2024
- Oversaw regulatory licensing compliance for gaming operations across the state.
- Developed policies and procedures for fair gaming licensing practices.
- Directed the commissions daily licensing operations, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Regional Security Manager
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
Topeka
12.2019 - 10.2022
- Monitored compliance with state licensing regulations and industry standards in security practices.
- Coordinated training programs for security staff across multiple locations.
- Liaison between the commission and lottery gaming facility managers and licensees.
- Provided statistical data for commission and division of budget review on a monthly, quarterly, fiscal year and yearly basis.
Supervising Enforcement Agent
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
Topeka
01.2016 - 12.2019
- Managed a team of Enforcement Agents and support staff within the corporate background/licensing division.
- Managed caseloads by tracking deadlines for filing investigative reports and presentation to the commission.
- Enforced compliance with gaming license regulations and laws.
Enforcement Agent
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
Topeka
04.2008 - 01.2016
- Conducted complex corporate background investigations.
- Enforced compliance with gaming regulations during inspections and investigations.
- Collaborated with law enforcement agencies on regulatory matters and investigations.
Patrol Supervisor
Lyon County Sheriff's Office
Emporia
02.2005 - 04.2008
- Supervised daily patrol operations and ensured team compliance with policies.
- Developed schedules for patrol shifts to optimize coverage in assigned areas.
- Responded to emergency calls and provided guidance to officers on scene.
- Mentored junior officers, fostering teamwork and communication skills within the unit.
Deputy Sheriff
Lyon County Sheriff's Office
Emporia
04.1997 - 02.2005
- Enforced laws and maintained public safety in Lyon County.
- Conducted traffic stops and issued citations for violations.
- Responded to emergency calls and assisted in crisis situations.
- Investigated crimes, collected evidence, and documented findings.
Detention Officer
Lyon County Sheriff's Office
Emporia
03.1995 - 04.1997
- Supervised detainees to ensure safety and compliance with facility regulations.
- Conducted regular inspections of detention areas to maintain security standards.
- Managed intake and release processes for new detainees efficiently.
Education
High School Diploma -
Emporia High School
Emporia, KS05-1993
Some College (No Degree) -
Emporia State University
Emporia, KSSome College (No Degree) - Law Enforcement
University of Kansas
Hutchinson, KSSkills
- Regulatory oversight
- Licensing compliance
- Investigative techniques
- Industry knowledge
- Team leadership
- Stakeholder engagement
- Team collaboration
- Multitasking and organization
Timeline
Director of Gambling
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
09.2024 - Current
Director of Licensing and Sports Wagering
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
10.2022 - 09.2024
Regional Security Manager
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
12.2019 - 10.2022
Supervising Enforcement Agent
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
01.2016 - 12.2019
Enforcement Agent
Kansas Racing And Gaming Commission
04.2008 - 01.2016
Patrol Supervisor
Lyon County Sheriff's Office
02.2005 - 04.2008
Deputy Sheriff
Lyon County Sheriff's Office
04.1997 - 02.2005
Detention Officer
Lyon County Sheriff's Office
03.1995 - 04.1997
High School Diploma -
Emporia High School
Some College (No Degree) -
Emporia State University
Some College (No Degree) - Law Enforcement
University of Kansas