Ex-Senator Andy Sanborn Admits Stealing COVID Relief Funds

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-07-10

Former New Hampshire state senator and casino operator Andy Sanborn has pleaded guilty in federal court to stealing government funds. He admitted to diverting more than $255,000 in federal COVID-19 relief money for personal spending instead of business purposes. Sanborn, 64, entered his guilty plea on July 8 to a charge of Theft of Government Funds. U.S. District Judge Landya B. McCafferty scheduled sentencing for October 15, 2026. According to the plea agreement, prosecutors are recommending a prison term. ### What Happened with the COVID Relief Money? It's a story that's become all too familiar during the pandemic. Federal relief programs were meant to help struggling businesses stay afloat. But in this case, Sanborn saw an opportunity to pad his own pockets instead. He took the money and used it for things like: - Personal expenses, not business costs - Luxury purchases that had nothing to do with his casino operations - Other unauthorized spending that violated the relief program rules The total amount stolen was over $255,000. That's a lot of cash that was supposed to help people keep their jobs or pay their rent. ### The Legal Fallout Sanborn now faces serious consequences. Theft of Government Funds is a federal crime that can carry significant prison time. Prosecutors are already recommending a prison term as part of the plea deal. The judge will have the final say at sentencing, which isn't scheduled until October 2026. That gives everyone plenty of time to prepare their arguments. ### Why This Matters for the Casino Industry This case sends a clear message to casino operators everywhere. The government is watching how relief funds are used. If you misuse them, you'll get caught. For professionals in the casino industry, it's a reminder to keep your financial records clean. Don't mix personal and business expenses. And definitely don't steal from federal programs designed to help people during a crisis. ### What's Next for Andy Sanborn? Right now, Sanborn is out on bail awaiting sentencing. He'll have to cooperate with investigators and follow strict conditions until his day in court. His political career is likely over. Being a state senator doesn't mean much when you've admitted to stealing from the government. And his casino operations could be affected too. It's a cautionary tale about what happens when greed takes over. The pandemic was hard on everyone, but that doesn't give anyone the right to steal relief money meant for others. ### Final Thoughts If you work in the casino industry, take this story seriously. It's not just about one bad actor. It's about the trust that the public places in businesses to do the right thing. Make sure your own operations are above board. Keep detailed records. And if you're ever tempted to use relief funds for personal stuff, remember Andy Sanborn. It's just not worth it.