Race fixing probe underway in Michigan

by John Pawlak, the U.S. Trotting Association

Columbus, OH — The Michigan Gaming Control Board is seeking witnesses to what it alleges is a conspiracy among 30 drivers, trainers, owners and gamblers to fix races at the state’s three pari-mutuel harness tracks.

A spokesman for the Board told the Detroit Free Press that the investigation spans the past year, and also involves the cooperation of the Ontario Racing Commission and the racetracks. Without identifying anyone, the newspaper reported that the Michigan State Police served warrants and searched three Michigan homes on Thursday.

The Board says anyone with information should call (517) 241-1426 or its anonymous tip line at (888) 314-2682, or call the Michigan State Police at (517) 336-3437.

Related Articles:

  • Five horsemen suspended in Michigan (Tuesday, May 25, 2010)
    The Michigan Gaming Control Board has suspended five horsemen as part of a probe into race-fixing at harness tracks across the state.
  • Drivers sue Michigan Gaming Control Board (Friday, August 17, 2012)
    Suspended harness drivers John Moody, Donald Harmon, Rick Ray and Wally McIllmurray, Jr. have filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court of Eastern District of Michigan Southern Division.
  • Appeals court rules Michigan Board violated drivers’ rights (Monday, June 22, 2015)
    Mlive.com is reporting that a federal appeals court ruled last week that the Michigan Gaming Control Board violated the constitutional rights of four drivers when it suspended their licenses for refusing to answer questions about fixing races.

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