Frank Costigan Dies: James Packer Dad Never Forgave Him

Australia's casino magnate, James Packer, has been all over the news of late.  In the U.S. he's been tied to a potential investment in financially troubled Las Vegas. 

A nemesis of Packer's, Frank Costigan, has passed away this week at the age of 78. 

Costigan was the former royal commissioner remembered as a tireless campaigner against corruption. 

In 2006, Packer described the Costigan royal commission as the "darkest chapter" in the life of his own dad, Kerry.

Speaking at Kerry Packer's state memorial service, the younger Packer said that his father had never forgiven Mr. Costigan and "nor could we". 

Costigan had codenamed Kerry Packer as the "Squirrel", implicating him in fraud, drug trafficking, pornography and murder.  The elder Packer would later describe those allegations as "grotesque, ludicrous and malicious." 

Mr. Costigan died in a Melbourne hospital about 7:10 am Sunday.  He is survived by his five children and 10 grandchildren.

Christopher Costigan, Gambling911.com Publisher