The New Hampshire Attorney General’s office, in collaboration with the state Lottery Commission, has uncovered compelling evidence connecting former lawmaker and current casino operator Andy Sanborn of fraudulent activity and disguised purchases using Covid-19 relief funds.
The state lottery commission moved to permanently revoke Sanborn’s license to operate casinos.
His wife, current state representative Laurie Sanborn, also resigned from a study committee on gambling due to the two of them being under criminal investigation.
Andy Sanborn, a prominent Republican figure in New Hampshire, served as a state Senator from 2010 to 2018. Known for his involvement in the gaming industry, Sanborn owned and operated Concord Casino, a popular establishment in downtown Concord.
The suspicions surrounding Sanborn’s activities came to light during a routine suitability review of Concord Casino. The investigation, led by the New Hampshire Department of Justice and the Lottery Commission’s Investigation and Compliance Division, unearthed evidence of Covid-19 relief fraud and the misuse of taxpayer funds.
According to the findings, Sanborn allegedly applied for and received an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) worth $844,000. This loan was intended to provide financial relief to businesses affected by the pandemic. However, the investigation revealed that Sanborn diverted the funds for personal gain instead of utilizing them for their intended purpose.
The evidence presented in the investigation demonstrated that Sanborn used the fraudulently obtained funds to purchase luxury items rather than supporting his casino’s charitable gaming business. Specifically, Sanborn acquired three race cars using the relief funds, including two Porsche 987 Cayman S racers for personal use and a Ferrari F430 challenge racer as a gift for his wife.
Furthermore, the Attorney General’s office has initiated a criminal investigation into the actions of all individuals and entities involved. A criminal referral has been made to the United States Attorney’s Office, indicating the severity of the allegations and the potential legal ramifications for Sanborn and anyone complicit in the activities.
This case underscores the need for enhanced regulations and oversight in the distribution and utilization of Covid-19 relief funds. The exposure of such fraudulent schemes highlights the vulnerability of relief programs and the necessity for stronger safeguards to ensure that taxpayer funds are allocated appropriately.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the future of Sanborn and Concord Casino is uncertain.
