Michael Armstrong/Ron Mallia/Michael Caspaney
On 25 March 2009, Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards disqualified Mr Michael Armstrong and Mr Ron Mallia for a period of six months along with Mr Michael Caspaney for three months after they pleaded guilty to charges of concealing the identity of a horse under Australian Rule of Harness Racing 217. The inquiry established that the horse Lota Vision NZ, had been trialled at Ballarat on 7 December 2008 under the name of the deceased horse Possum Bourne.
In addition to the above determinations, Mr Michael Armstrong was fined $2000 at the same inquiry after pleading guilty to a charge under Rule 187(2) for giving false and misleading evidence to Investigative Steward Mr Andy Rogers during his investigation.
All parties appealed against the severity of the respective penalties to the Racing Appeals Tribunal (RAT) with the matter heard before Judge Williams on 28 April 2009.
Judge Williams in handing down his decision found that the case before him was one which attached “significant culpability” and was a “clear and dishonest deception”. He outlined that in view of the significant deterrence that needs to flow from the tribunal the penalties of the HRV Stewards were “proper and appropriate” and dismissed the appeals.
The penalties are effective from the date of the original inquiry on 25th March 2009.
To view a copy of the transcript of proceedings - click here
