Legal Troubles Continue for Former State Senator Andy Sanborn and Concord Casino
In a rapidly evolving legal saga, former state Senator Andy Sanborn faces escalating challenges connected to his business, Concord Casino. Just a week after being indicted on multiple pandemic aid fraud charges, the Attorney General’s Office has now brought similar allegations against the casino itself, further complicating Sanborn’s efforts to sell the establishment. This development raises serious questions about the future of Concord Casino and its potential new ownership, amidst broader implications for state revenue and community support.
Indictments and Their Implications
Sanborn is accused of defrauding the Main Street Relief Fund—an emergency pandemic assistance program—out of nearly $190,000. The indictment also alleges that the casino provided false information about its operational history to qualify for larger relief payouts. Specifically, prosecutors claim Concord Casino misrepresented its losses and operational time, receiving $286,600 instead of the approximately $100,000 it was entitled to. As such, the accusations paint a troubling picture of impropriety surrounding Sanborn’s business dealings during a time when many were struggling to stay afloat.
The implications of these legal battles stretch far beyond Sanborn’s personal situation. If convicted, the charges would prohibit Concord Casino from obtaining a gaming license for a decade. Questions linger over whether this loss of license would affect a potential new owner—a point on which the Attorney General’s Office has thus far remained non-committal, adding uncertainty to any prospective sale.
The Financial Stakes
The stakes are high, not just for Sanborn but for the state of New Hampshire as a whole. Concord Casino has access to a historic horse racing license which allows it to offer slot-like gaming for at least the next seven years. Given that lawmakers imposed a moratorium on new gaming licenses this year, Concord’s unique status provides it with a rare opportunity for generating revenue.
Revenue from historic horse racing far outstrips that from traditional table games in New Hampshire. Recent data shows that in August, the state banked $2.7 million from historic horse racing, compared to just $640,000 from table games. This income is vital; it contributes significantly to public education funding across the state. A conviction against Sanborn and his casino would jeopardize this lucrative revenue stream and, by extension, the financial health of community programs reliant on these funds.
Legal Counterpoints
As the legal complexities around Concord Casino deepen, Sanborn’s lawyer, Zachary Hafer, insists that the Attorney General’s actions are politically motivated and designed to obstruct a buyer’s acquisition of the casino. Hafer argues that since Win Win Win—Concord Casino’s registered name—is entirely owned by Sanborn, the charges against the casino are merely a means to block a potential sale that could benefit the public. This stance highlights the contentious nature of the legal battle, as both Sanborn’s defense and the Attorney General’s Office position themselves within a larger narrative concerning public interest and legal accountability.
Timeline and Future Prospects
Sanborn is scheduled for arraignment in Merrimack County Superior Court, where the developments surrounding his indictment and the casino will be closely monitored. While he has yet to announce his buyer publicly, the potential purchase hangs precariously in the balance as that individual awaits a decision on their gaming license application.
This isn’t the first time Sanborn has found himself in legal hot water. The indictment concerning the Main Street Relief Fund is the latest in a series of investigations that date back months. In a separate but related investigation, state regulators allege that Sanborn misrepresented his company to secure $844,000 in Economic Injury Disaster Loans, a fund not open to casinos. These allegations suggest a broader pattern of mismanagement and deception, exacerbating Sanborn’s troubles.
Community Impact
As this story unfolds, the livelihood of approximately 30 charities that benefited from Concord Casino’s revenue is also at risk. In its final year of operation, the casino provided around $170,000 to various local organizations—funds that have become increasingly crucial given the current economic climate.
While a judge has previously allowed Sanborn additional time to finalize a sale, this latest indictment could rewrite the playbook entirely. The Attorney General’s Office has contested the judge’s finding that charities suffered significant losses, indicating that the power dynamics are shifting.
Conclusion
Andy Sanborn’s legal challenges present a compelling case study of the intersection between personal ethics, legal accountability, and public interest. As he fights to maintain his casino and pursue a potential sale, the outcome will likely resonate well beyond his personal fortunes, influencing state revenue, community support, and the regulatory landscape for businesses in New Hampshire. With the arraignment looming and the potential for a pivotal court ruling, all eyes will be on the courtroom as the saga continues to unfold.
