Bedford, New Hampshire representative Laurie Sanborn has stepped down as chairperson of a Commission examining the state’s charitable gaming industry. The Republican legislator and her husband, former state Senator Andy Sanborn, are currently being investigated over fraud allegations. The couple owns a bar and casino in Concord.
COVID-19 Relief Allegedly Used to Purchase Luxury Cars
Sanborn decided to resign from her post to avoid distractions from the good work they intend to do, according to House Speaker Sherm Packard. Her husband is being accused of fraudulently obtaining $844,000 in funding under a federal COVID-19 relief program facilitated by the Small Business Association.
The former senator allegedly spent a significant portion of the funds on luxury vehicles, including two Porsche cars valued at $181,000 and a Ferrari for his wife worth $80,000. The attorney general’s office has confirmed they’re investigating the matter.
Casino Licence at Risk
The Sanborns previously received approval to develop a larger venue near their Concord casino, but after the fraud allegations erupted, their casino licence is now at risk of permanent cancellation by the New Hampshire Lottery Commission.
Andy Sanborn denied the accusations, saying their actions were transparent and within the law.
