PSA: [Trainers] Fines and Suspensions

Quote from talkinghorse on April 25, 2025, 9:53 AM

FAS Rulings for Friday, April 25, 2025

NOTABLES:

ENGBLOM, PER M on 4/29/2023

POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE WRIGHTSTOWN, NJ FINED: $6,000 YOB 1980 FULL - 380 DAYS, 5/16/2025 THRU 5/30/2026 New Jersey Racing Commission (NJRC) licensee Per Engblom was the programmed trainer of the horse "Mon Amour" when he raced in the 6th race at the Meadowlands Racetrack on April 29, 2023 and finished in first place. Following this race, "Mon Amour" was selected to submit post-race blood and urine samples for analysis. A report from Industrial Laboratories identified the presence of Oxycodone, Carisprodol and Meprobamate, a metabolite of Carisprodol. At Mr. Engblom`s request, split sample testing was performed at Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, which is an approved independent laboratory. These testing results did confirm the presence of Oxycodone, Carisprodol and its metabolite Meprobamate. This is in direct violation of the rules and regulations of the New Jersey Racing Commission. An adminsitrative hearing was conducted on December 6, 2023 in the Judges` office at the Meadowlands Racetrack to accept evidence and testimony regarding this matter. As a result of this hearing, the Board of Judges have determined that NJRC licensee Per Engblom was the programmed trainer of the horse "Mon Amour" when he raced in the 6th race at the Meadowlands Racetrack on April 29, 2023 and the presence of these prohibited substances is in direct violation of N.J.A.C. 13:71-23.1, and N.J.A.C. 13:71-23.6. As a trainer licensed by the NJRC, Mr. Engblom is the absolute insurer of and responsible for the condition of a horse within his care and custody and shall not enter or start a horse that has in its body any drug or substance foreign to the natural horse. As a result of the evidence and testimony presented at the administrative hearing held on December 6, 2023 regarding the post-race positive test from the horse "Mon Amour" for the drug Oxycodone on April 29, 2023, Mr. Engblom is hereby issued a full suspension of his NJRC license for a period of one year (365 days). Said suspension shall begin on March 15, 2024 and run through March 14, 2025 inclusive. Status as of 4/24/2025 - Subsequent Ruling - By Ruling No. 24MDH35, dated February 15, 2024, trainer Per Engblom was issued a three-hundred-eighty day suspension, a $6,000 fine, disqualification of purse and 8 Multiple Medication Violation ("MMV") points by the Board of Judges at Meadowlands Racetrack for violation of N.J.A.C. 13:71-7.29(a)13, N.J.A.C. 13:71-23.1(a)(b)1 and N.J.A.C. 13:71-23.6(a)(b)(c)(d) in connection with a positive test result in the horse "Mon Amour" when it completed in the 6th race at Meadowlands Racetrack on April 29, 2023. Mr. Engblom appealed the decision of the Board of Judges and requested a stay of the penalties. By Ruling No. 24TRH10, dated February 28, 2024, a stay was granted and the matter was transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law ("OAL") as a contested case. On January 2, 2025, Administrative Law Judge ("ALJ"), Thomas R. Betancourt issued an Initial Decision, which affirmed the findings of violation and all penalties except the three-hundred-eighty day suspension which he reduced to ninety days. At its March 19, 2025 meeting, the New Jersey Racing Commission adopted the ALJ's findings of fact and conclusions with certain modifications. The Commission found that the appropriate penalty should include a three-hundred-eighty suspension as ordered by the Board of Judges in Ruling No. 24MDH35. The Commission issued a Final Decision, dated April 23, 2025, setting forth its decision and modifications. Mr. Engblom is hereby issued a full suspension from May 16, 2025 through and including May 30, 2026. The fine associated with this ruling shall be received by the New Jersey Racing Commission no later than May 30, 2026. Related rulings: 24MDH35, dated February 15, 2024; 24TRH10, dated February 28, 2024.

 

SMITH, TODD D

Nfld on 4/18/2025 NORTHFIELD, OH FINED: $1,000 YOB 1972 FULL - 90 DAYS, 4/30/2025 THRU 7/28/2025 POSSESSION OF A DOSING AND/OR STOMACH TUBE On April 18,2025 a search was conducted of the barn F in the areas that are assigned to trainer Todd Smith, including his stalls, and tackroom, and his truck. During this search the investigator located a sealed package labeled "medium pvc stomach tube." Mr. Smith had a hearing with the judges on 4/21/25. After considering all testimony and evidence he is fined $1000 and suspended 180 days (first offense in the last 365 days) if this ruling is not appealed the suspension will be reduced to $1000 fine and 90 days (with the remaining 90 days stayed pending no further violations in the next 365 days) These are prohibited items and constitutes action that is against the best interest of racing. O.S.R.C.-3769-2-26 (A)(10);3769-18-07 (A) Mr. smith is barred from all grounds governed by the OSRC during his suspension. Any horses under his care that he wants to transfer to another owner or trainer must be approved by the judges at Northfield Park. The fine has been paid.

Quote from talkinghorse on May 2, 2025, 12:56 PM

FAS Rulings for Friday, May 2, 2025

NOTABLES:

BRADEN, COREY J

Wdstk on 4/27/2025 FIGHTING IJAMSVILLE, MD YOB 1970 FULL - 60 DAYS, 4/28/2025 THRU 6/26/2025 Driver Corey Braden engaged in a physical altercation with another driver coming off the Shenandoah Downs racetrack after the conclusion of the 7th race on April 27th, 2025. His actions are detrimental to the best interests of harness racing. As a result, Braden is issued a 60-day full suspension from April 28th, 2025 through June 26th, 2025. During this suspension, he and all horses trained and/or owned by him are barred from the grounds under the jurisdiction of the Virginia Racing Commission. Aggravating factors were considered in the determination of this penalty. 11VAC10-60-10.Y.

 

CARRUBBA, CHRIS S JR

HoP on 4/30/2025 LEBANON, OH FULL - INDEFINITELY AS OF 5/1/2025 CONDUCT DETRIMENTAL TO THE BEST INTEREST OF HORSE RACING YOB 1981 71 IAC 8-7-1; 71 IAC 10-2-3(a) During a search conducted by Indiana Horse Racing Commission investigators on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at Hoosier Park several items of contraband were found in a dorm room and trucks belonging to licensee Chris Carrubba, Jr. These items include, but are not limited to, needles, syringes, and injectable medications. This constitutes an act which is against the best interest of racing in the state of Indiana. For this violation Mr. Carrubba shall be summarily suspended beginning Thursday, May 1, 2025 until a disciplinary hearing is conducted with the judges at Hoosier Park. During the period of this suspension Mr. Carrubba is denied access to all grounds under the jurisdiction of the IHRC. All transfer of horses owned or trained by Mr. Carruba must first be approved by the judges at Hoosier Park.

 

MALETZ, JEFFREY R NEW LONDON, OH YOB 1972

Nfld on 4/18/2025 FINED: $1,000 FULL - 365 DAYS, 4/24/2025 THRU 4/23/2026 POSSESSION OF HYPODERMIC NEEDLES, SYRINGES AND/OR INJECTABLE AND/OR OTHER DRUGS On April 18,2025, a search was conducted in barn F in the areas that are assigned to trainer Jeffrey Maletz, including his stalls, tackroom, and his truck. During this search the investigator located two used syringes in his tackroom. Also three polypropylene hub needle caps on the floor of the tackroom. Then searched his pickup truck and found three unused Catheter Needles in the compartment between the two front seats. Mr. Maletz had a hearing with the judges on April 21,2025. After considering all testimony and evidence he is fined $1000 and suspended 365 days (First offense in the last 365 days). If this ruling is not appealed the suspension will be reduced to $1000 Fine and 180 days (with the remaining 180 days stayed pending no further violations in the next 365 days). These are prohibited items and constitutes action that is against the best interest of racing. O.S.R.C.3769-18-07 (A) 3769-2-26 (A)(10) 12-99 17-30(B) 17-33 (A) Mr. Maletz is barred from all grounds governed by the OSRC during his suspension. Any horses under his care that he wants to transfer to another owner or trainer must be approved by the judges at Northfield Park. The fine must be paid by 5/4/25.

 

SMITH, TODD D

Nfld on 4/18/2025 NORTHFIELD, OH FINED: $1,000 YOB 1972 FULL - 90 DAYS, 4/30/2025 THRU 7/28/2025 POSSESSION OF A DOSING AND/OR STOMACH TUBE On April 18,2025 a search was conducted of the barn F in the areas that are assigned to trainer Todd Smith, including his stalls, and tackroom, and his truck. During this search the investigator located a sealed package labeled "medium pvc stomach tube." Mr. Smith had a hearing with the judges on 4/21/25. After considering all testimony and evidence he is fined $1000 and suspended 180 days (first offense in the last 365 days) if this ruling is not appealed the suspension will be reduced to $1000 fine and 90 days (with the remaining 90 days stayed pending no further violations in the next 365 days) These are prohibited items and constitutes action that is against the best interest of racing. O.S.R.C.-3769-2-26 (A)(10);3769-18-07 (A) Mr. smith is barred from all grounds governed by the OSRC during his suspension. Any horses under his care that he wants to transfer to another owner or trainer must be approved by the judges at Northfield Park. The fine has been paid.

Quote from talkinghorse on May 9, 2025, 9:25 AM

FAS Rulings for Friday, May 9, 2025

NOTABLES:

 

SMITH, SAMUEL S

Nfld on 1/17/2025 DERBY, NY FINED: $1,000 YOB 1988 FULL - 7 DAYS, 5/11/2025 THRU 5/17/2025 HORSE DISQUALIFIED - PLACED 9, PURSE REDISTRIBUTION POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE Blood sample #925699 collected at North Park on 1/17/25 from the horse Big Bad Mosa was found to contain Triamcinolone Acetonide at a concentration of 124+-5 picograms per milliliter of plasma. Which exceeds the Regulatory Threshold of 100 picograms per milliliter of plasma that was adopted by the OSRC. Mr. Smith Waived his right to a hearing. He is hereby fined $1000 and suspended for 15days. Big Bad Mosa is disqualified and as a result of that disqualification all purse money must be returned for redistribution ($5000.00). This is Mr. Smith second Class 4, positive test in the last 365 days. If this ruling is not appealed the suspension will be reduced to $1000 fine & 7 days suspension (With 8 days stayed pending no positives test in the next 365 days) O.S.R.C. 3769-18-01- (B) (10) & (13) 18-02 3769-17-43. During his suspension Mr. Smith is barred from all grounds governed by the OSRC. Any horses that he wants to transfer to another owner or trainer must be approved by the judges at Northfield Park. The purse and fine must be paid by 5/15/25.

Quote from talkinghorse on May 17, 2025, 9:42 AM

FAS Rulings for Friday, May 16, 2025

NOTABLES:

ALLARD, SIMON

PcD on 4/1/2025 OTHER GILBERTSVILLE, PA FINED: $300 APPEALED - 5/9/2025 YOB 1982 PA Title 185.2, PA Title 205.501(14)(15) After the 5th race on 4/1/2025 at Pocono Downs, Simon Allard did initiate a disagreement/argument in the paddock with another licensee who attempted to walk away two times. After initiating for a third time - a physical confrontation occurred. Mr. Allard is fined $300 for acting in a manner that reflects negatively on the sport and is inconsistent with the interests of racing. Mitigating factors were considered in the determination of this ruling. Future violations may result in increased penalties. Appeals must be made in writing within 10 days of this decision to: State Horse Racing Commission 2301 N. Cameron St. Room 301 Harrisburg PA 17110 Attn: Anthony Salerno Status as of 5/9/2025 - Appeal - Ruling# 25005C The request by Simon Allard for an appeal of the Pocono Downs Board of Judges Ruling No. 25044PD is hereby DENIED. Mr. Allard failed to file his appeal in a timely manner pursuant to 7 Pa. Code §179.7 (b) and failed to submit the required appeal bond in accordance with 7 Pa. Code §179.7 (c).

 

ENGBLOM, PER

M on 4/29/2023 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE WRIGHTSTOWN, NJ FINED: $6,000...STAYED FULL - 380 DAYS, 5/16/2025 THRU 5/30/2026...STAYED YOB 1980 New Jersey Racing Commission (NJRC) licensee Per Engblom was the programmed trainer of the horse "Mon Amour" when he raced in the 6th race at the Meadowlands Racetrack on April 29, 2023 and finished in first place. Following this race, "Mon Amour" was selected to submit post-race blood and urine samples for analysis. A report from Industrial Laboratories identified the presence of Oxycodone, Carisprodol and Meprobamate, a metabolite of Carisprodol. At Mr. Engblom`s request, split sample testing was performed at Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, which is an approved independent laboratory. These testing results did confirm the presence of Oxycodone, Carisprodol and its metabolite Meprobamate. This is in direct violation of the rules and regulations of the New Jersey Racing Commission. An adminsitrative hearing was conducted on December 6, 2023 in the Judges` office at the Meadowlands Racetrack to accept evidence and testimony regarding this matter. As a result of this hearing, the Board of Judges have determined that NJRC licensee Per Engblom was the programmed trainer of the horse "Mon Amour" when he raced in the 6th race at the Meadowlands Racetrack on April 29, 2023 and the presence of these prohibited substances is in direct violation of N.J.A.C. 13:71-23.1, and N.J.A.C. 13:71-23.6. As a trainer licensed by the NJRC, Mr. Engblom is the absolute insurer of and responsible for the condition of a horse within his care and custody and shall not enter or start a horse that has in its body any drug or substance foreign to the natural horse. As a result of the evidence and testimony presented at the administrative hearing held on December 6, 2023 regarding the post-race positive test from the horse "Mon Amour" for the drug Oxycodone on April 29, 2023, Mr. Engblom is hereby issued a full suspension of his NJRC license for a period of one year (365 days). Said suspension shall begin on March 15, 2024 and run through March 14, 2025 inclusive. Status as of 5/14/2025 - Stay - The New Jersey Racing Commission ("Commission") is in receipt of a notice of appeal and request for a stay from Andrew R. Benedict, Esq. on behalf of his client Per Engblom. By Ruling No. 24MDH35, dated February 15, 2024, trainer Per Engblom was issued a three-hundred-eighty day suspension, a $6,000 fine, disqualification of purse, and 8 Multiple Medication Violation ("MMV") points by the Board of Judges at Meadowlands Racetrack for violation of N.J.A.C. 13:71-7.29(a)13, N.J.A.C. 13:71-23.1(a)(b)1, and N.J.A.C. 13:71-23.6(a)(b)(c)(d) in connection with a positive test result in the horse "Mon Amour" when it completed in the 6th race at Meadowlands Racetrack on April 29, 2023. On January 2, 2025, Administrative Law Judge ("ALJ") Thomas R. Betancourt issued an initial decision, which affirmed the finding of violations and all penalties except the three-hundredeighty day suspension which he reduced to ninety days. On March 19, 2025, the Commission determined to modify the initial decision. The Commission found that the appropriate penalty should include a three-hundred-eighty day suspension as ordered by the Board of Judges in Ruling No. 24MDH35. The Commission issued a Final Decision, dated April 23, 2025, setting forth its decision and modifications. The Acting Executive Director, having considered the request for a stay, hereby grants a stay of the penalties pending a final determination by the New Jersey Superior Court, Appellate Division. Related rulings: 25TRH5, dated April 23, 2025; 24TRH10, dated February 28, 2024; 24MDH35, dated February 15, 2024.

 

MOORE, JASON E

Nfld on 3/29/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE JEFFERSONVILLE, OH FINED: $1,000 HORSE DISQUALIFIED, PURSE REDISTRIBUTION YOB 1970 Blood Sample #925097 collected at Northfield Park on 3/29/25 from the horse She Knows It All was found to contain Dexamethasone at a concentration of 599 +-32 picograms per milliliter of plasma. This exceeds the Regulatory Threshold of 5 picograms per milliliter of plasma adopted by the OSRC. Mr. Moore Waived his right to a hearing. He is hereby fined $1000 and suspended for 10 days (First Offense in the last 365 days). She Knows It All is disqualified and as a result of the disqualification all purse money must be returned for redistribution ($2500.00). The penalty will be reduced to a fine of $1000 if not appealed. O.S.R.C. -3769-18-01 (A) (10,13,15,16) 3769-18-02 3769-17-43 The purse money and fine must be paid by 5/19/25.

 

THARPS, TRENT E JR

MVR on 3/25/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE LOVELAND, OH FINED: $1,000 YOB 1981 FULL - 7 DAYS, 5/13/2025 THRU 5/19/2025 HORSE DISQUALIFIED - PLACED 10, PURSE REDISTRIBUTION OSRC 3769-18-01-A(1,10,13,15,16), 3769-18-02, 3769-17-43, 3769-17-30-B. Blood sample #927203 was tested by the Ohio Department of Agriculture ATL and was found to contain Diphenhydramine, a Class 3 drug. Blood sample #927203 was provided by #5 Control Sicily, who finished 1st in race 13 on 3/25/25 at Miami Valley Raceway, and was trained by Mr. Tharps. #5 is disqualified and placed 10th, the purse earnings of $3500 are ordered to be returned to Miami Valley Raceway to be redistributed accordingly. Mr. Tharps waived his rights to a hearing, split sample and DNA tests. This is Mr. Tharps first medication violation in the last 365 days. Mr. Tharps is fined $1000 and given a 15 day full suspension or a $1000 fine and a 7 day (5/13/25-5/19/25) full suspension if not appealed. The fine and purse must be paid within 10 days of this ruling. During his suspension, Mr. Tharps is denied the use and privileges of all the grounds sanctioned by the OSRC. All horses owned and/or trained by Mr. Tharps may only be transferred by the Judges at Scioto Downs or the OSRC. Mr. Tharps has 48 hours to appeal this decision to the OSRC.

Quote from talkinghorse on May 23, 2025, 10:02 AM

FAS Rulings for Friday, May 23, 2025

NOTABLES:

CARRUBBA, CHRIS S JR

HoP on 4/30/2025 LEBANON, OH YOB 1981 FULL - 20 DAYS, 5/1/2025 THRU 5/20/2025 CONDUCT DETRIMENTAL TO THE BEST INTEREST OF HORSE RACING 71 IAC 8-7-1; 71 IAC 10-2-3(a) During a search conducted by Indiana Horse Racing Commission investigators on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at Hoosier Park several items of contraband were found in a dorm room and trucks belonging to licensee Chris Carrubba, Jr. These items include, but are not limited to, needles, syringes, and injectable medications. This constitutes an act which is against the best interest of racing in the state of Indiana. For this violation Mr. Carrubba shall be summarily suspended beginning Thursday, May 1, 2025 until a disciplinary hearing is conducted with the judges at Hoosier Park. During the period of this suspension Mr. Carrubba is denied access to all grounds under the jurisdiction of the IHRC. All transfer of horses owned or trained by Mr. Carruba must first be approved by the judges at Hoosier Park. Status as of 5/20/2025 - Subsequent Ruling - Mr. Carrubba's summary suspension is ended as of May 20, 2025. This ruling has been superseded by HP-2025-3539 which is a full suspension of Mr. Carrubba's license. HoP on 4/30/2025 FINED: $2,500 FULL - 252 DAYS, 5/20/2025 THRU 1/26/2026 POSSESSION OF HYPODERMIC NEEDLES, SYRINGES AND/OR INJECTABLE AND/OR OTHER DRUGS 71 IAC 8-1-7 “Contraband” On Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Indiana Horse Racing Commission investigators conducted a search of Chris Carrubba Jr`s dorm room and several of his vehicles. During the vehicle search multiple bottles (over 20) of injectable substances (some unlabeled), a near full box of needles, syringes, and an IV jugging tube were found. In his dorm room IHRC investigators found 4 bottles, with handwritten labels, of unknown substances that have been sent off to Industrial Labs for testing. Possession of needles, syringes, injectable substances, and tubes is prohibited by non-veterinarians on association grounds. Due to violating the IHRC Contraband rule Mr. Carrubba was summarily suspended beginning Thursday, May 1, 2025. On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Mr. Carrubba appeared before the judges for a hearing at Hoosier Park to discuss the results of this search. After considering the evidence presented the judges determined the following penalties: A full suspension of 270 days from May 1, 2025 through January 26, 2026. Mr. Carrubba will be credited with the days he has already served while summarily suspended. A fine of $2500.00 During the period of this suspension Mr. Carrubba is denied access to all grounds under the jurisdiction of the Indiana Horse Racing Commission. Any transfer of horses under his care or ownership must first be approved by the judges at Hoosier Park.

 

ECKLEY, DEAN M

OAKGR on 4/17/2025 GREENVILLE, MI YOB 1983 INELIGIBLE(INE) AS OF 4/17/2025...STAYED CONDUCT DETRIMENTAL TO THE BEST INTEREST OF HORSE RACING 810 KAR 3:020, Sec. 15 (1)(h), (i), (j), (q), and (bb). In 2022, Dean Eckley applied for a KHRGC License. This application was forwarded to the Corporation’s Licensing Review Committee and was denied. The Committee gave Eckley the opportunity to withdraw the application and he declined. At a later date, Dean Eckley petitioned the Committee to be allowed to withdraw the denied application. This request was granted by the Committee and indicated by Judges ruling J2022-014 rescinding the denial. Thereafter, following an extensive investigation, it was determined that Dean Eckley did in fact race horses at KHRGC licensed racing venues in 2022 and 2023 using the names of his employees who were licensed trainers in Kentucky. Therefore, in accordance with the KHRGC’s statutory charge to regulate and maintain horse racing at race meetings in the Commonwealth so as to dissipate any cloud of association with the undesirable and maintain the appearance as well as the fact of complete honesty and integrity of horse racing in the Commonwealth, Dean Eckley is hereby declared ineligible for licensing by the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation for engaging in conduct that is against the best interest of horse racing and compromising the integrity of horse racing in the Commonwealth of Kentucky,. Status as of 5/22/2025 - Stay - Mr. Dean Eckley has been Granted a Stay as of May 9th, 2025, pursuant to KRS 230.320(2)(d) by the President of the Kentucky Horse Racing & Gaming Corporation pending an administrative hearing.

 

HITE, KRIS

Nfld on 4/5/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE WEST NEWTON, PA FINED: $1,000 YOB 1974 FULL - 60 DAYS, 5/19/2025 THRU 7/17/2025 HORSE DISQUALIFIED, PURSE REDISTRIBUTION Blood sample #925158 collected at Northfield Park on 4/05/25 from the horse Pocahontas Du Lac was found to contain Methamphetamine. This is a Class 1 penalty Class A drug. Mr. Hite waive his right to a hearing. He is hereby fined $1000 and suspended 365 days. Pocahontas Du Lac is disqualified and as a result of that disqualification all purse money must be returned for redistribution ($5000.00) This is Mr. Hite First offense in the last 365 days. If this ruling is not appealed the suspension will be reduced to $1000 fine & 60 days suspension (with 305 days stayed pending no Class 1 or 2 positives in the next 365 days) O.S.R.C.-3769-18-01 (A) (1,10,13,15,16) 3769-18-02 3769-17-43 During his suspension Mr. Hite is barred from all grounds governed by the OSRC. Any horses that he wants to transfer to another owner or trainer must be approved by the judges at Northfield Park. The fine must be paid by 5/25/25.

 

MALETZ, JEFFREY R NEW LONDON, OH YOB 1972

Nfld on 4/18/2025 FINED: $1,000 FULL - 365 DAYS, 5/20/2025 THRU 5/19/2026 POSSESSION OF HYPODERMIC NEEDLES, SYRINGES AND/OR INJECTABLE AND/OR OTHER DRUGS Mr. Maletz withdraws his appeal of ruling #25NFLD-124 at Northfield Park. And is hereby fined $1000 and suspended for 365 Days. O.S.R.C.-3769-18-07 (A)3769-2-26 (A) (10) 1299 17-30 (B) 17-33 (A) Mr. Maletz is barred from all grounds governed by the OSRC during his suspension. Any horse under his care that he wants to transfer to another owner or trainer must be approved by the judges at Northfield Park.

Quote from talkinghorse on May 30, 2025, 10:52 AM

FAS Rulings for Friday, May 30, 2025

NOTABLES:

 

GILLIS, JEFFREY R

USTA on 5/24/2025 FERGUS, ON YOB 1977 INDEFINITE SUSPENSION(IND) AS OF 5/24/2025 USTA MEMBERSHIP ACTION The USTA is indefinitely suspending the membership of Jeffrey Gillis per 22.07 (penalty of other racing jurisdictions) and Rule 22.08 (reciprocity of penalties) in relation to the ruling issued by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) on May 23, 2025, in which it was determined that Mr. Gillis violated rules of Standardbred racing in the province of Ontario and “engaged in conduct prejudicial to the best interests of racing.” As Mr. Gillis is now indefinitely suspended, he is a "person not in good standing" under USTA Rule 4.130 and horses and USTA members associated with Mr. Gillis are subject to the applicable restrictions under USTA Rules Rule 20.15, 20.17, 22.05, 22.06, and 26.12. To ensure compliance with the USTA’s Rules and Bylaws, the USTA advises its members to consult with officials at the USTA before participating in transactions or engaging in business activities involving registered Standardbreds with Mr. Gillis.

 

WAGNER, JOHN W

USTA on 5/29/2025 USTA MEMBERSHIP ACTION CENTERVILLE, MD INELIGIBLE(INE) AS OF 5/29/2025 YOB 1956 On May 28, 2025, while under investigation by the USTA and Standardbred Racing Investigative Fund (SRIF), John Wagner requested the cancellation of his USTA membership. The USTA is declaring John Wagner ineligible for membership for violations of USTA Rule 26.06 (Fraudulent Misconduct by Member), USTA Rule 7.01 (Bona Fide Owner or Lessee), and USTA Rule 20.07 (Conspiracy to Commit Violation of Rules). Evidence gathered in an investigation overseen by SRIF established that John Wagner’s daughter, Kelsey Wagner, acted as a fictitious owner on behalf of her parents, John and Pamela Wagner. Standardbreds were registered in Kelsey’s Wagner’s name to establish a fraudulent ownership arrangement in response to John Wagner’s unapproved medication violations and resulting suspension and Pamela Wagner’s related disqualification by state regulators. John and/or Pamela Wagner were, in every relevant respect, the actual owners of the horses registered in Kelsey Wagner’s name. John Wagner, individually and in concert with others, fraudulently and corruptly effected a false registration with respect to Standardbred horses transferred to Kelsey Wagner, in violation of USTA Rule 20.06. Horses that raced while registered in Kelsey Wagner’s name did not do so in the name of the bona fide owner, who in some instances was John Wagner, in violation of Rule 7.01. John, Kelsey, and Pamela Wagner entered an agreement to violate USTA Rules 20.06 and 7.01 and each engaged in multiple acts in furtherance of this agreement/conspiracy, in violation of Rule 20.07.

 

WAGNER, KELSEY A

USTA on 5/29/2025 FAIRFAX, VA FINED: $217,500 YOB 1991 INDEFINITE SUSPENSION(IND) AS OF 5/29/2025 USTA MEMBERSHIP ACTION The USTA is indefinitely suspending Kelsey Wagner’s USTA membership and imposing a fine against her in the amount of $217,500 for violations of USTA Rule 26.06 (Fraudulent Misconduct by Member), USTA Rule 7.01 (Bona Fide Owner or Lessee), and USTA Rule 20.07 (Conspiracy to Commit Violation of Rules). Evidence gathered in an investigation overseen by the Standardbred Racing Investigative Fund established that Kelsey Wagner acted as a fictitious owner on behalf of her parents, John and Pamela Wagner. Standardbreds were registered in Kelsey’s Wagner’s name to establish a fraudulent ownership arrangement in response to John Wagner’s unapproved medication violations and resulting suspension and Pamela Wagner’s related disqualification by state regulators. John and/or Pamela Wagner were, in every relevant respect, the actual owners of the horses registered in Kelsey Wagner’s name. Kelsey Wagner, individually and in concert with others, fraudulently and corruptly effected a false registration with respect to the 87 Standardbred horses registered in her name, in violation of USTA Rule 20.06. Horses that raced while registered in Kelsey Wagner’s name did not do so in the name of the bona fide owner, in violation of Rule 7.01. Kelsey, Pamela, and John Wagner entered an agreement to violate USTA Rules 20.06 and 7.01 and each engaged in multiple acts in furtherance of this agreement/conspiracy, in violation of Rule 20.07. Because Kelsey Wagner is now indefinitely suspended, she is a "person not in good standing" under USTA Rule 4.130 and related rules.

 

WAGNER, PAMELA E

USTA on 5/29/2025 USTA MEMBERSHIP ACTION FAIRFAX, VA FINED: $435,000 YOB 1958 INDEFINITE SUSPENSION(IND) AS OF 5/29/2025 The USTA is indefinitely suspending Pamela Wagner’s USTA membership and imposing a fine against her in the amount of $435,000 for violations of USTA Rule 26.06 (Fraudulent Misconduct by Member), USTA Rule 7.01 (Bona Fide Owner or Lessee), and USTA Rule 20.07 (Conspiracy to Commit Violation of Rules). Evidence gathered in an investigation overseen by the Standardbred Racing Investigative Fund established that Pamela Wagner’s daughter, Kelsey Wagner, acted as a fictitious owner on behalf of her parents, John and Pamela Wagner. Standardbreds were registered in Kelsey’s Wagner’s name to establish a fraudulent ownership arrangement in response to John Wagner’s unapproved medication violations and resulting suspension and Pamela Wagner’s related disqualification by state regulators. John and/or Pamela Wagner were, in every relevant respect, the actual owners of the horses registered in Kelsey Wagner’s name. Pamela Wagner, individually and in concert with others, fraudulently and corruptly effected a false registration with respect to at least the 62 Standardbred horses she transferred to Kelsey Wagner, in violation of USTA Rule 20.06. Horses that raced while registered in Kelsey Wagner’s name did not do so in the name of the bona fide owner, who in many instances was Pamela Wagner, in violation of Rule 7.01. Pamela, Kelsey, and John Wagner entered an agreement to violate USTA Rules 20.06 and 7.01 and each engaged in multiple acts in furtherance of this agreement/conspiracy, in violation of Rule 20.07. Because Pamela Wagner is now indefinitely suspended, she is a "person not in good standing" under USTA Rule 4.130 and related rules.

 

CARRUBBA, CHRIS S JR

HoP on 4/30/2025 LEBANON, OH FINED: $2,500 YOB 1981 FULL - 252 DAYS, 5/20/2025 THRU 1/26/2026 POSSESSION OF HYPODERMIC NEEDLES, SYRINGES AND/OR INJECTABLE AND/OR OTHER DRUGS 71 IAC 8-1-7 “Contraband” On Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Indiana Horse Racing Commission investigators conducted a search of Chris Carrubba Jr`s dorm room and several of his vehicles. During the vehicle search multiple bottles (over 20) of injectable substances (some unlabeled), a near full box of needles, syringes, and an IV jugging tube were found. In his dorm room IHRC investigators found 4 bottles, with handwritten labels, of unknown substances that have been sent off to Industrial Labs for testing. Possession of needles, syringes, injectable substances, and tubes is prohibited by non-veterinarians on association grounds. Due to violating the IHRC Contraband rule Mr. Carrubba was summarily suspended beginning Thursday, May 1, 2025. On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Mr. Carrubba appeared before the judges for a hearing at Hoosier Park to discuss the results of this search. After considering the evidence presented the judges determined the following penalties: A full suspension of 270 days from May 1, 2025 through January 26, 2026. Mr. Carrubba will be credited with the days he has already served while summarily suspended. A fine of $2500.00 During the period of this suspension Mr. Carrubba is denied access to all grounds under the jurisdiction of the Indiana Horse Racing Commission. Any transfer of horses under his care or ownership must first be approved by the judges at Hoosier Park.

 

JOHNSON, WHITNEY R

Nfld on 5/6/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE NORTHFIELD, OH FINED: $1,000 YOB 1992 FULL - 15 DAYS, 5/29/2025 THRU 6/12/2025 HORSE DISQUALIFIED, PURSE REDISTRIBUTION Blood sample #929700 Collected at Northfield Park on 5/6/25 from the horse Better B Swift showed the TCO2 concentration to be 38.5 +- 1.0 millimoles per liter of serum. This exceeds the Regulatory Threshold of 37.0 millimoles per liter adopted by the OSRC. TCO2 overage is a Class 3 penalty Category B violation. This is Miss. Johnson First medication violation within the last 365 days. Miss. Johnson had a hearing with the judges at Northfield Park on 5/25/25. She is hereby fined $1000 and suspended for 30 days return of purse for redistribution ($195.00). The penalty will be reduced to a fine of $1000 and a 15 day suspension if not appealed. O.S.R.C.-3769-18-01 (B) (10) & (13) 18-02 18-99 During her suspension Miss. Johnson is barred from all grounds governed by the OSRC. Any horses under her care that she wants to transfer to another owner or trainer must be approved by the judges at Northfield Park. The fine and purse money must be paid by 6/6/25.

Quote from talkinghorse on June 6, 2025, 1:02 PM

FAS Rulings for Friday, June 6, 2025

NOTABLES:

JENKINS, CONNIE A

USTA on 6/5/2025 CULPEPER, VA YOB 1955 INDEFINITE SUSPENSION(IND) AS OF 6/5/2025 USTA MEMBERSHIP ACTION The USTA is indefinitely suspending the memberships of Ms. Connie Jenkins and Lucky Lilly Belle Stable (of which she is the beneficial owner as defined in USTA Rule 4.10) for violations of USTA Rule 26.16 (failure to submit information) and USTA Article § 1.04(a)(7) (failure to furnish information requested to supplement a membership application). Ms. Jenkins failed to provide records and information requested by the Standardbred Racing Investigative Fund (SRIF) in collaboration with the USTA pursuant to an investigation in suspected violations of the USTA’s Rules and Bylaws. As with the transfer of all ownership interests in a registered Standardbred horse, the USTA will scrutinize all attempted transfers of an interest in a Standardbred horse owned by Ms. Jenkins or Lucky Lilly Belle Stable to ensure that such transfer complies with the USTA’s Rules and Bylaws and reserves the right to not recognize any such transfer. In addition, as Ms. Jenkins is now indefinitely suspended, she is a "person not in good standing" under USTA Rule 4.130 and horses and USTA members associated with Ms. Jenkins or Lucky Lilly Belle Stable are subject to the applicable restrictions under USTA Rules Rule 20.15, 20.17, 22.05, 22.06, and 26.12. To ensure compliance with the USTA’s Rules and Bylaws, the USTA advises its members to consult with officials at the USTA before participating in transactions or engaging in business activities involving registered Standardbreds with Ms. Jenkins or Lucky Lilly Belle Stable.

 

BREWER, JASON J

MVR on 3/24/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE MORAINE, OH FINED: $1,000 YOB 1978 FULL - 30 DAYS, 6/3/2025 THRU 7/2/2025 HORSE DISQUALIFIED - PLACED 10, PURSE REDISTRIBUTION OSRC 3769-18-01-A(1,10,13,15,16), 3769-18-02, 3769-17-43, 3769-17-30-B. Blood sample #927187 was tested by the Ohio Department of Agriculture ATL and was found to contain D-Methamphetamine, a Class 1, Penalty A drug. Blood sample #927187 was provided by #5 High On The Hill, who finished 1st in race 12 on 3/24/25 at Miami Valley Raceway, and was trained by Mr. Brewer. Mr. Brewer requested a split sample which confirmed the findings. This is Mr. Brewer`s first medication violation in the last 365 days. #5 is disqualified and placed 10th. The purse earnings of $9250 is ordered to be returned to Miami Valley Raceway within 10 days of this ruling, to be redistributed accordingly. Mr. Brewer is fined $1000 and given a full 365 day suspension, or a $1000 fine and a 30 day full suspension (06/03/25-07/02/25) with 335 days held in obeyance provided Mr. Brewer does not have another Class 1 or Class 2 medication violation during that timeframe. The penalty has been reduced due to mitigating circumstances provided during Mr. Brewer`s hearing. The fine must be paid within 10 days of this ruling. During his suspension, Mr. Brewer is denied the use and privileges of all the grounds sanctioned by the OSRC. All horses owned and/or trained by Mr. Brewer may only be transferred by the Judges at Scioto Downs or by the OSRC. Mr. Brewer has 48 hours to appeal this decision to the OSRC.

 

FAIRCHILD, JENNIFER ANN

MVR on 3/24/2025 CLARKSVILLE, OH FINED: $500 YOB 1980 FULL - 30 DAYS, 6/3/2025 THRU 7/2/2025 CONDUCT DETRIMENTAL TO THE BEST INTEREST OF HORSE RACING OSRC 3769-2-26-A(4&10), 3769-18-09-A. Ms. Fairchild has admitted to drug use that possibly lead to a positive test for the horse, #5 High On The Hill in race 12 on 3/24/25 at Miami Valley Raceway. Ms. Fairchild`s action is conduct detrimental to the integrity of horse racing in Ohio. Ms. Fairchild is fined $1000 and given a 60 day full suspension, or a $500 fine and a 30 day full suspension (06/03/25-07/02-25) if not appealed. The fine is due within 10 days of this ruling. Ms. Fairchild is also subject to drug testing at any time requested. Ms. Fairchild has 48 hours to appeal this decision to the OSRC.

 

JOHNSON, WHITNEY R

Nfld on 5/6/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE NORTHFIELD, OH FINED: $1,000 YOB 1992 FULL - 15 DAYS, 5/29/2025 THRU 6/12/2025 HORSE DISQUALIFIED, PURSE REDISTRIBUTION Blood sample #929700 Collected at Northfield Park on 5/6/25 from the horse Better B Swift showed the TCO2 concentration to be 38.5 +- 1.0 millimoles per liter of serum. This exceeds the Regulatory Threshold of 37.0 millimoles per liter adopted by the OSRC. TCO2 overage is a Class 3 penalty Category B violation. This is Miss. Johnson First medication violation within the last 365 days. Miss. Johnson had a hearing with the judges at Northfield Park on 5/25/25. She is hereby fined $1000 and suspended for 30 days return of purse for redistribution ($195.00). The penalty will be reduced to a fine of $1000 and a 15 day suspension if not appealed. O.S.R.C.-3769-18-01 (B) (10) & (13) 18-02 18-99 During her suspension Miss. Johnson is barred from all grounds governed by the OSRC. Any horses under her care that she wants to transfer to another owner or trainer must be approved by the judges at Northfield Park. The fine and purse money must be paid by 6/6/25.

 

Quote from talkinghorse on June 13, 2025, 11:30 AM

FAS Rulings for Friday, June 13, 2025

NOTABLES:  

CARRUBBA, CHRIS S JR

HoP on 4/30/2025 LEBANON, OH FINED: $2,500 YOB 1981 FULL - 195 DAYS, 5/20/2025 THRU 11/30/2025 POSSESSION OF HYPODERMIC NEEDLES, SYRINGES AND/OR INJECTABLE AND/OR OTHER DRUGS 71 IAC 8-1-7 “Contraband” On Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Indiana Horse Racing Commission investigators conducted a search of Chris Carrubba Jr`s dorm room and several of his vehicles. During the vehicle search multiple bottles (over 20) of injectable substances (some unlabeled), a near full box of needles, syringes, and an IV jugging tube were found. In his dorm room IHRC investigators found 4 bottles, with handwritten labels, of unknown substances that have been sent off to Industrial Labs for testing. Possession of needles, syringes, injectable substances, and tubes is prohibited by non-veterinarians on association grounds. Due to violating the IHRC Contraband rule Mr. Carrubba was summarily suspended beginning Thursday, May 1, 2025. On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Mr. Carrubba appeared before the judges for a hearing at Hoosier Park to discuss the results of this search. After considering the evidence presented the judges determined the following penalties: A full suspension of 270 days from May 1, 2025 through January 26, 2026. Mr. Carrubba will be credited with the days he has already served while summarily suspended. A fine of $2500.00 During the period of this suspension Mr. Carrubba is denied access to all grounds under the jurisdiction of the Indiana Horse Racing Commission. Any transfer of horses under his care or ownership must first be approved by the judges at Hoosier Park. Status as of 6/7/2025 - Subsequent Ruling - Pursuant to a Settlement Agreement approved on June 5, 2025, licensee Chris Carrubba, Jr. has agreed to a reduced suspension from two hundred-seventy days (270) days to two hundred-fourteen (214) days to be served through November 30, 2025 and a $2500.00 fine.

 

KASH, KEITH J JR

Btva on 1/30/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE MEDINA, OH FINED: $500 YOB 1979 TRAINING - 15 DAYS, 6/8/2025 THRU 6/22/2025 Keith Kash Jr., as trainer record for the horse “BLUE SPANX”, first place finisher of the 8th race on 1/30/2025 at Batavia Downs, having appeared before a representative of the New York State Gaming Commission, and waiving the right to a formal hearing and the right to appeal, and having the referee sample test confirming the positive, is issued a Thirty (30) day suspension (6/8/2025-7/7/2025) reduced to a Fifteen (15) day suspension (6/8/20256/22/2025), and a One Thousand Dollar ($1,000.00) fine (reduced to a Five Hundred Dollar ($500.00) fine without appeal. Post race analysis of blood samples revealed a positive finding for Peiminine, a prohibited substance. BLUE SPANX is hereby disqualified and unplaced. All purse monies paid must be returned and redistributed. During the term of the suspension Keith Kash Jr. will be denied the privilege of and access to all grounds under jurisdiction of the NYSGC. All horses owned or trained by Keith Kash Jr. will be denied the privilege of participating in any racing activities in New York and no transfer to any other licensee(s) will be allowed. “BLUE SPANX” has submitted a sample for testing and has been removed from the Judge’s list by obtaining a negative result and has re-qualified. (1st Offense in this category in a 365-day period).

Quote from talkinghorse on June 26, 2025, 10:32 AM

FAS Rulings for Friday, June 20, 2025

NOTABLES:

CLEGG, BETTY JO

BR on 6/11/2025 NORTHFIELD, OH FINED: $250 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION RULES YOB 1973 Trainer failed to comply with NYS Gaming Commission Worker`s compensation rules which necessitated a scratch.

 

MAXWELL, ZYLER M

Mayfd on 5/31/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE FINED: $1,000 HORSE DISQUALIFIED - PLACED 6, PURSE REDISTRIBUTION Mr. Zyler Maxwell is the listed trainer of #3 Miss Sunshine Lady, who was in the 5th Race at Purchase District Fair at Mayfield KY on 5/31/2025. Miss Sunshine Lady was the winner and sent to the KHRGC State Veterinarian for post-race testing. Sample E621231 was sent to Industrial Laboratories and confirmed a level of Phenylbutazone at 1.42 ug/mL which is over the allowed 0.3 ug/mL violating 810 KAR 8:030. Mr. Maxwell waived his right to a split sample. #3 Miss Sunshine Lady is hereby disqualified from 1st and is placed 6th and in addition is ordered to return the purse of $4,500 (Four Thousand Five Hundred) to the KHRGC for redistribution. This is Mr. Zyler Maxwells 1st Medication Violation in 365 Days.

 

SCOFIELD, SCOTT L

OD on 5/25/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE CAMDEN, DE FINED: $500 YOB 1979 HORSE DISQUALIFIED - PLACED 7, PURSE REDISTRIBUTION Trainer Scott Scofield was the trainer of record on horse RACER PACER in the 3rd race on May 25th, 2025 at Ocean Downs. Post-race analysis of blood sample #E624363 taken from RACER PACER identified the presence of Isoflupredone at a concentration of 146 pg/mL+18 pg/mL. The threshold for this controlled therapeutic medication is 100 pg/mL. As a result, Scofield is fined $500.00 and must return all purse monies. Additionally, RACER PACER is disqualified, finishing first and placed seventh. All purse monies must be returned within 72 hours of this issuance, and all fines are due within 10 days of the ruling. COMAR: 09.10.03.04.B. 1/2 Multiple Medication Violation (MMV) points assessed.

 

SWIFT, RYAN L

BR on 5/14/2025 POSITIVE TEST- POST RACE LANCASTER, NY FINED: $500 YOB 1983 FULL - 3 DAYS, 6/14/2025 THRU 6/16/2025 Ryan Swift, as trainer of record for the horse, FRANK`S WATCHING, in the 5th race on 05/14/2025 at Buffalo Raceway, having appeared before a representative of the New York State Gaming Commission, and waiving the right to a formal hearing and the right to appeal, and waiving the right to a referee sample test, is issued a seven (7) day full suspension (reduced to a three (3) day full suspension) and a One-Thousand Dollar ($1,000.00) fine reduced to Five-hundred dollar ($500.00) without appeal. FRANK`S WATCHING, who finished 1st is disqualified and unplaced and the purse money earned of Four-thousand four-hundred ($4,400) is ordered returned and redistributed. The post-race sample collected from the #3 FRANK`S WATCHING was found to contain "METHOCARBAMOL" at a concentration of 2.48 +/- 0.06 ng. FRANK`S WATCHING shall submit a sample for testing and remain on the Judge`s list until a negative result is obtained and must re-qualify. During the term of the suspension, Ryan Swift is deemed a disqualified person and denied access to all grounds under jurisdiction of the New York State Gaming Commission. Any horses owned or trained by Ryan Swift shall be denied the privilege of participating during the term of the suspension. This is Ryan Swift`s 1st offense in this category in a 365-day period.