A New Hampshire administrative law judge ruled that Andy Sanborn's casino license can be revoked, marking a significant development in the ongoing controversy surrounding Concord Casino's ownership.

Judge Gregory Albert's decision allows the New Hampshire Lottery Commission to proceed with license revocation, ending Sanborn's eligibility for sale extensions. While the ruling can be challenged in court or through a Lottery Commission rehearing, it significantly impacts Sanborn's ability to complete the casino's pending sale to an unnamed buyer.

The judge acknowledged that certain equity arguments favor an extension, citing positive tax revenue and charitable organization support. However, he deferred the final suitability determination to the courts.

Sanborn's legal team, represented by attorneys Zachary Hafer and Adam Katz, remains committed to fighting the issues in court and proceeding with the sale. They argue that the buyer has provided a clear path to closing the transaction.

This development follows several controversies involving Sanborn:

• An investigation by NH Attorney General John Formella regarding improper use of $844,000 in COVID relief loans
• Allegations of purchasing luxury vehicles with relief funds
• An October arrest for fraudulent use of pandemic aid, involving alleged inflation of casino gross receipts by $1 million

While state officials maintain they're cooperating with the sale process, Sanborn's attorneys claim the state is actively blocking the transaction. The dispute continues to evolve as both parties prepare for potential legal proceedings.

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