Sandhills Daily | Crime
A Pinehurst resident has pleaded guilty in a federal bid-rigging conspiracy involving U.S. military procurement contracts, with officials estimating the affected commerce at roughly $6 million.
What happened
Federal prosecutors say Brett Sanborn, identified as the president of a North Carolina construction company, conspired with other individuals and businesses to suppress competition on maintenance, repair, and operations procurements tied to military installations.
How the bid-rigging worked
According to court documents referenced by the U.S. Department of Justice, the group coordinated bids in advance—using emails, calls, and texts—agreeing on pricing before submitting proposals. Officials say the goal was to create the appearance of competition while steering awards to predetermined subcontractors.
The intentionally losing bids were allegedly referred to as “comp” bids—submitted to make it look like a fair competitive process was taking place.
What comes next
Sanborn pleaded guilty to one felony count of restraining trade under Section 1 of the Sherman Act. A sentencing hearing has not been scheduled. A federal judge will determine the sentence after considering applicable guidelines and other statutory factors.
Federal officials noted that bid-rigging and collusion can waste taxpayer dollars and undermine trust in the government procurement process.