Statement from USTA President Russell Williams on New York charges

Columbus, OH — The U.S. Trotting Association has been cooperating for several years with official investigations, several of which now have reached the indictment stage in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

“Having worked in the criminal justice system some years ago, I’m acutely aware of the presumption of innocence that applies from indictment through trial,” said Russell Williams, USTA President. “At the same time, it’s essential to the administration of justice and to the health of our industry for anyone with knowledge of possibly illegal activity to cooperate with law enforcement authorities. It is imperative that our sport is conducted fairly and with integrity.”

In his official statement, U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Berman states that “the care and respect due to the animals competing, as well as the integrity of racing, are matters of deep concern.”

We fully concur.

The USTA will continue to monitor the situation, but as a matter of policy regarding all pending legal proceedings, will have no further comment.

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