Racing Victoria (RV) Stewards have concluded an investigation into the actions of licensed stable hand Shane Gardiner.
The investigation related to the sale of thoroughbred horses by Mr Gardiner in which he had no ownership interest. It is alleged these actions resulted in Mr Gardiner receiving financial gain through fraudulent and dishonest behaviour.
Racing Victoria (RV) Stewards have charged Mr Gardiner with two (2) charges under Australian Rule (AR) 229(1)(a), which states:
AR 229 Corruption, dishonesty and misleading behaviour
(1) A person must not:
…
(a) engage in any dishonest, corrupt, fraudulent, improper or dishonourable action or practice
in connection with racing.
…
The particulars of the charges are summarised as follows:
Charge One
- At all relevant times, Mr Gardiner was a licensed stable hand registered by Racing Victoria.
- During the month of September 2020, Mr Gardiner offered a 15% share in an unnamed colt to a third party for the total sum of $3,750.00, which was accepted.
- The total of $3,750.00 was paid by the third party into the bank account as nominated by Mr Gardiner.
- Mr Gardiner did not own the unnamed colt or have any authority to sell any shares in the horse.
- The conduct engaged by Mr Gardiner was dishonest, fraudulent and improper.
Charge Two
- At all relevant times, Mr Gardiner was a licensed stable hand registered by Racing Victoria.
- During the month of September 2020, Mr Gardiner offered a 5% share in an unnamed colt to a third party for the total sum of $1,250.00, which was accepted.
- The total sum of $1,250.00 was paid by the third party into a bank account as nominated by Mr Gardiner.
- Mr Gardiner did not own the unnamed colt or have the authority to sell any shares in the horse.
- The conduct engaged by Mr Gardiner was dishonest, fraudulent and improper.
The charges issued against Mr Gardiner will be heard before the Victorian Racing Tribunal on a date to be fixed.
ENDS.