Banned for refusing to hand over phone

On Friday 24 January 2020, Racing and Wagering Western Australia’s (RWWA) Stewards commenced an investigation concerning Race 3, Westral Pace that was scheduled to be run at Gloucester Park that evening.

A number of licensed persons were questioned and their mobile phones were examined by the Stewards.

Following further investigations, Stewards have now opened an inquiry into an allegation that prior to the race, Trainer/Driver Mr C. Hall made an improper statement(s) to a Trainer with a runner engaged in the race with regard to the tactics and handling of their runner.

Mr Hall has been directed to surrender, for the purposes of further inspection and examination, his mobile telephone. Mr Hall has not complied with this direction at this time.

Pursuant to Harness Rule of Racing 183, Stewards have also directed that all licenses held by Mr Hall be suspended forthwith pending the outcome of this matter.

The inquiry will be conducted on a date to be determined.

Any persons who may have information in relation to this matter are encouraged to contact the RWWA Investigators through the following:

• Investigator:                          Geoff Johnson                     0408 843 560
• Investigator:                          Paul Criddle                         0402 020 400
• Investigator:                          Freya Norman                      0404 893 063
• Betting Investigator:            Trevor Styles                        0437 312 145
• Integrity Email:                     racingintegrity@rwwa.com.au
• Integrity Phone:                    (618) 9445 5565

Acknowledging concerns are paramount and industry sources of information is welcomed. Information and complaints from any person that impacts upon the integrity of thoroughbred, harness or greyhound racing in Western Australia will be accepted in whatever form available including, in person to RWWA Stewards and Investigators, in writing to the address stated above, by telephone to the integrity message service or by email to the racing integrity webmail address provided. This can be reported anonymously if required, with all information treated confidentially and in accordance with best practice.

Racing and Wagering Western Australia