Posted on: December 17, 2024, 09:02h.
Last updated on: December 17, 2024, 09:32h.
In the continuing saga over New Hampshire’s embattled Concord Casino, the co-owner’s attorneys recently went to court to overturn a ruling that allowed for the revocation of the property’s gambling license.
Andy Sanborn’s lawyers argued in New Hampshire court that the revocation ruling was “unreasonable and unlawful,” the Concord Monitor, reported this week.
The appeal was presented to a Merrimack County Superior Court judge. Arguments are likely to take place next year.
Recently, Administrative Judge Gregory Albert ruled in favor of revoking the license.
Intimidation Alleged
Sanborn’s lawyers claim that state officials are attempting to block the sale of the charitable casino even though Sanborn has at least one interested buyer.
Respondents attempted to intimidate buyers (e.g., by suggesting buyers would face criminal liability for conduct alleged to have been undertaken by Petitioners before the sale), undermine the possibility of a sale, and cause delays to run out the clock on the revocation deadline,” according to the recently-filed appeal, the Monitor reported.
State officials deny they’re trying to block the sale of the casino. An entity called Bettor Investment Group recently attempted to purchase Concord Casino, according to the Monitor.
Full House Resorts Inc., also was interested in acquiring the Concord Casino, according to the Monitor.
About a year ago, Sanborn was ordered to close and sell the property following an investigation. The casino’s license also was suspended.
Sanborn was given extensions to close the purchase, until last month, when Albert ruled that state officials can move forward with revoking Sanborn’s casino license for two years. Without a license, it becomes harder for Sanborn to complete the sale, according to New Hampshire Public Radio (NHPR).
Attorneys Will Fight in Court
Sanborn’s lawyers have vowed to fight in court so that a deal can go through.
Last year, New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella launched an investigation on Sanborn, a former state senator, and his wife, Rep. Laurie Sanborn, for improper use of $844K in COVID relief loans. Andy Sanborn spent about $182K of the money to purchase two Porsches and a Ferrari, one of which was given to his wife, officials claim.
Both Formella and the New Hampshire Lottery Commission have worked to revoke the casino’s license. Sanborn wasn’t charged for that issue.
In October, Sanborn was arrested for fraudulent use of aid given to small businesses during the pandemic. He allegedly inflated the casino’s gross receipts by about $1M, which allowed him to receive an additional $188K from the government fund.
