Concord Casino Under Fire: Allegations, Arrests, and the Future of Gaming in New Hampshire
Posted on: October 28, 2024, 02:18h
Last updated on: October 28, 2024, 02:18h
In a significant turn of events, the Concord Casino in New Hampshire, operated by the company Win Win Win, is now embroiled in serious legal challenges following an investigation by the state. New Hampshire Attorney General John M. Formella announced charges against the casino, reflecting the increasing scrutiny on the establishment and its owner.
Legal Charges Against Concord Casino
The casino, which has faced a series of controversies, is now charged with theft by deception and theft by unauthorized taking. This development follows the arrest of Andy Sanborn, the casino’s owner, who is also facing similar charges. Sanborn is expected to appear in Merrimack County Superior Court imminently, marking a crucial moment in the ongoing saga of the Concord Casino.
The allegations suggest that the casino inflated its losses, resulting in an improper receipt of $188,474 more than it was entitled to from state funds. Furthermore, reports indicate discrepancies in the documentation related to the casino’s operational timeline, raising further questions about the organization’s integrity and compliance with state regulations.
Possible Consequences of a Conviction
If convicted, the ramifications for Concord Casino could be severe. It may lead to a decade-long revocation of its ability to secure a gaming license, effectively crippling its future operational capabilities. Such a penalty would not only threaten the casino’s existence but could also complicate any prospective sale, diminishing its value and attractiveness to potential buyers.
Defending Against Legal Action
Sanborn’s legal representative, Zachary Hafer, has openly criticized the state’s actions, alleging that the Attorney General’s office is attempting to obstruct the sale of the casino. Hafer argues that since the business is a single-member LLC — solely owned by Sanborn — there should be no grounds for the charges against Win Win Win, asserting, “This is a deeply concerning development and we look forward to holding the AG accountable in court.”
As negotiations for a potential sale have stirred, an unidentified buyer is reportedly in the process of applying for a license to operate the Concord Casino, raising stakes for the legal proceedings currently underway.
Previous Investigations and Financial Irregularities
The current charges are not the first time Sanborn’s business practices have come under scrutiny. Earlier inquiries by the Attorney General’s office revealed that Sanborn failed to disclose the casino’s status when applying for pandemic relief funds. Approximately $844,000 in loans intended to support businesses during the COVID-19 crisis were wrongfully obtained, as casinos were not eligible for such funding. Reports further suggest that Sanborn misappropriated some of these funds to purchase luxury vehicles, including two Porsches and a Ferrari, which added to the controversy surrounding his financial management.
While no charges were filed as a result of that investigation, the New Hampshire Lottery Commission took action by suspending the gaming license and closing the business, placing additional pressure on Sanborn.
The Future of New Hampshire’s Gaming Landscape
In light of these legal issues and the existing suspension of the casino license, Sanborn has been ordered to sell the Concord Casino. He has sought extensions to complete this sale. Simultaneously, Sanborn is looking to expand his gaming ventures by working on a proposal for a new casino in Concord. This proposed facility is planned to encompass 43,000 square feet.
However, this new project faces legal opposition as well. Local resident Kassey Cameron has contested the project’s compliance with zoning regulations, leading to a hearing in the New Hampshire Supreme Court. This ongoing legal battle may further complicate Sanborn’s aspirations in the state’s gaming market.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding Concord Casino highlights the delicate nature of business ethics in the gambling sector, especially in a state where legal frameworks around gaming are still evolving. With serious allegations looming over the casino, the outcomes of the legal proceedings will not only determine the future of Sanborn and his enterprise but could also reshape the landscape of gaming and charitable gaming in New Hampshire. Stakeholders, including potential buyers and the community, will be watching closely as this story continues to unfold.
