Legal Battle Surrounds Former Senator Andy Sanborn’s Casino Sale Amid Pandemic Fraud Allegations
In a striking twist in the legal saga surrounding former New Hampshire Senator Andy Sanborn, his attorneys are appealing to a judge for assistance in finalizing the sale of his troubled casino, the Concord Casino. This plea comes on the heels of allegations regarding fraudulent misappropriation of nearly $844,000 in federal pandemic aid, which has put Sanborn’s business in jeopardy and has significant implications for local charities and state revenue.
The Legal Context: Conviction and Gaming Licenses
At the heart of this legal intrigue lies a state law that bars any individual with felony convictions from operating a charitable gaming facility for a period of ten years. This regulation poses a significant obstacle for Sanborn, who is confronting serious criminal charges and is now facing pressure from the state to close and sell his casino. The stakes are high, not just for Sanborn but for the broader community that relies on the revenue generated from charitable gaming, which funds vital programs such as public education, scholarships, food pantries, and youth support services.
Charitable Impact and Economic Considerations
The importance of Concord Casino extends beyond just entertainment; it serves as a critical funding source for various charities in New Hampshire. Recent reports indicate that the casino raised approximately $170,000 for charitable causes last year alone. Should a new buyer be successful in acquiring the casino, particularly one willing to introduce slot-like historic horse racing machines, this revenue could see a significant increase due to the anticipated player interest. Indeed, some observers suggest that the casino license in question may be the last of its kind available for seven years, making it a particularly attractive prospect for interested buyers.
The Quest for Buyer Protections
Sanborn’s legal team is adamant that without judicial assurance protecting potential buyers from inheriting legal liabilities linked to Sanborn’s alleged fraud, any deal is unlikely to succeed. According to court documents, potential buyers have been deterred from proceeding due to fears of being penalized if Sanborn or the casino receives a conviction. The urgency of the situation is palpable, as Sanborn faces a looming deadline to complete the sale or risk losing the casino’s operating license for a two-year term.
Court Proceedings and Judicial Opinions
In a bid to expedite matters, Sanborn’s attorneys recently filed a request with the Merrimack County Superior Court, hoping to clarify and secure the necessary protection for prospective buyers. Their position claims that rejecting such a protection would not only be unjust but would also harm the public interest, particularly the charitable causes dependent on the casino’s revenues.
Meanwhile, Administrative Law Judge Gregory Albert, who is overseeing Sanborn’s licensing case, acknowledges the public interest in keeping the casino operational. He has expressed agreement with Sanborn’s argument for safeguarding potential buyers against legal repercussions stemming from Sanborn’s actions. However, Judge Albert has also indicated that he lacks the authority to enforce such protections himself, which has prompted Sanborn’s legal team to seek relief through the higher court.
The Attorney General’s Silence
As this contentious case unfolds, the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office, which is pursuing criminal charges against Sanborn and overseeing the casino’s licensing issue, has remained reticent, failing to comment publicly on the developments. This silence adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate legal situation that not only involves allegations of fraud but also impacts numerous community programs reliant on charitable contributions.
Conclusion: Navigating Uncertain Waters
For Andy Sanborn, the battle extends beyond the courtroom and has broader implications for his personal and professional future, as well as for the charities and organizations that benefit from the casino’s revenue. As the situation develops, the focus remains on whether the courts will grant the requested protections to facilitate a sale, which would not only provide a financial lifeline for Sanborn but also ensure that critical community resources continue to flow into New Hampshire. The upcoming weeks are crucial, and the decision of the Merrimack County Superior Court could determine not just the fate of one man’s legacy but also the welfare of countless individuals reliant on the good works funded by the Concord Casino.
