The New York state Supreme Court blocked the transfer of the Nassau Coliseum to Las Vegas Sands, according to court documents.

The ruling puts a major wrench in the plan by the Las Vegas Sands to pursue a casino project on land that was owned by Nassau County, including the Nassau Coliseum and an adjoining part of land where a Marriott hotel currently sits.

Hofstra University filed an initial petition against the lease transfer on April 18, 2023.

In response to the court’s ruling, Hofstra President Susan Poser released a statement saying, “We appreciate the court’s thoughtful ruling and the court’s granting of reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs to Hofstra incurred in connection with several of the claims. The court recognized the public’s right to participate in decision-making about the current redevelopment plan for the Nassau Hub. We look forward to contributing to the planning process and advocating for the use of the Hub in ways that will best contribute to our thriving community, while protecting against environmental and other harms.”

A spokesperson for Las Vegas Sands responded, and also released a statement saying, "Las Vegas Sands is proceeding proudly and enthusiastically with our proposal for an integrated resort and entertainment center at the Nassau Hub. We are grateful for the wonderful response we have received from the Long Island community, and we will be continuing our very comprehensive outreach as we present this transformational project."

In a statement to News 12, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said, “We are confident that the erroneous application of the law to this set of facts will be overturned. I will continue to stand for the proposal by the Sands to develop a world class luxury hotel, spa,  entertainment center, and casino which will bring $5 billion dollars in construction, good paying permanent jobs and tax relief for our residents.”

See below for full court ruling.