NH Gaming Officials Deny Blocking Sale of Embattled Concord Casino
The sale of Concord Casino faces significant challenges as disagreements emerge between the owner's legal team and New Hampshire state authorities.
Andy Sanborn, the current casino owner, must sell the charitable gaming property following his casino license suspension. While there's an interested buyer, their identity remains undisclosed despite their involvement in pre-sale discussions.
Man in business suit smiling
Attorney Adam Katz, representing Sanborn, claims the state is impeding the sale despite the buyer having impeccable credentials. "The buyer is spotless from the perspective of the state," Katz stated, noting Sanborn's eagerness to complete the transaction.
However, Senior Assistant Attorney General Jessica King strongly refutes these allegations. She emphasizes that the New Hampshire Lottery Commission has maintained frequent communication with the potential buyer and provided all necessary resources for suitability determination.
The dispute was addressed in a hearing before Hearing Officer Gregory Albert. Meanwhile, Sanborn has received extensions to complete the sale, which was initially ordered by Administrative Hearing Officer Michael King with a six-month deadline.
Adding to the complexity, Sanborn faces state theft charges for allegedly misrepresenting revenue to obtain excess COVID funds. He's accused of receiving approximately $140,000 more than entitled and misusing $844,000 in relief funds to purchase luxury vehicles, including two Porsches and a Ferrari for his wife, state representative Laurie Sanborn. Officials maintain these funds were not intended for casino use.