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Racing Victoria stewards will open inquiries on Thursday in relation to charges issued by the Victorian Police Sporting Integrity Intelligence Unit.
The charges emanate from the Unit's investigation into the activities of licensed or registered persons in the Warrnambool and Ballarat areas, including the execution of warrants at properties on 30 January 2019.
Stewards have directed a licensed trainer and two registered stable employees to attend inquiries and answer questions in relation to the charges.
Licensed trainer Jarrod McLean has been directed to attend at 2pm, registered stable employee Tyson Kermond at 3pm and, licensed rider agent and registered stable employee William Hernan at 4pm.
Former licensed trainer Darren Weir, who has also been named in the media today in connection with the charges is currently a disqualified person serving a four-year ban over charges laid earlier this year by RV Stewards under the Rules of Racing.
Racing Victoria chief executive Giles Thompson has issued a statement in relation to the charges issued against four persons by Victoria Police's Sporting Integrity Intelligence Unit:
"The core responsibility of Racing Victoria is to protect the integrity of the sport and to enforce the Australian Rules of Racing, ensuring both a level playing field for all and the health and welfare of horses competing in Victorian races. This is a responsibility that we take very seriously," Thompson said.
"In the course of discharging their duties, our Integrity Services team commenced an investigation into the activities of licensed persons in the Warrnambool and Ballarat areas.
"During the course of our investigation, the Integrity Services team sought the support of Victoria Police's Sporting Integrity Intelligence Unit on the matter thus instigating their investigation.
"Victoria Police have today issued charges against four persons as a result of their investigation which included the execution of warrants at properties in the Warrnambool and Ballarat areas on 30 January 2019.
"These are serious charges and the nature of the alleged conduct described within the charges is distressing to all within the racing industry, as well as the general community.
"Upon the issuing of charges today, our stewards have immediately opened inquiries and ordered three persons to attend to answer questions in relation to the charges. Those inquiries will dictate our next steps."
