Breaking news in the Herald Sun (3:29pm, EST). We no longer have to hang around pubs and clubs to find out who the 49 year-old Kilmore man is:
A Victorian harness racing trainer is facing jail over the alleged corruption of a race in which he had two horses competing.
Police’s sporting integrity intelligence unit charged Robert Walters, 49, with two offences relating to race-fixing in Shepparton on July 17 last year.
The Kilmore trainer’s case was brought before Melbourne Magistrates Court for the first time but he did not attend the hearing last month.
Police allege, in charge sheets released by the court, that Mr Walters:
- Drove his horse, Kash, over the 2190m trot in a manner that did not provide it the full opportunity to win or obtain the best possible placing;
- Manipulated the field positions to disadvantage other horses and give the advantage to his other horse, Paddy Mach; and
- Advised an associate of his intention to “employ specific tactics” so that bets could be placed.
Mr Walters’ is facing counts of engaging in conduct that corrupts or would corrupt a betting outcome, and use of corrupt conduct information for betting purposes.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of 10 years jail.
It was not outlined what financial advantage Mr Walters received from the alleged offending.
He was driving Kash, one of his horses in the race, while another driver had charge of Paddy Mach, who won the race.
It is alleged he put Kash in a position that hindered trotter Springfield Tattoo, and cleared the way for Paddy Mach to win.
Mr Walters’ lawyer Denis Connell told the court that while his client was absent he was “taking the matters very seriously”.
He could not indicate to the court if Mr Walters would plead guilty or contest the charges.
The court heard Mr Walters was only charged on March 30 this year.
A Harness Racing Victoria stewards report, published online after last year’s race meeting, revealed they had opened an inquiry into the race and seized Mr Walters’ mobile phone for forensic analysis.
Mr Walters must attend his next court hearing on August 22.
I note the horse Paddy Mach won yesterday at Maryborough for the trainer. No comments re this case from HRV as yet.
PS: VERY interesting to note who drove the horse to win the race in question at Shepparton!