On 7 September 2018, Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards suspended the licenses of Mr Nathan Jack, Mr Mark Pitt and Ms Lisa Bartley after they had been found guilty of charges under Section 195C of the Crimes Act (1958). These charges relate to engaging in conduct that corrupts or would corrupt the betting outcome of an event or event contingency. Mr Jack, Mr Pitt and Ms Bartley were also prevented from racing or trialling any horses owned by them and excluded from attending any Victorian racecourse.
Parties were provided with the opportunity to provide submissions to Stewards by 5pm on 17 September 2018, as to why these restrictions should not remain in place pending the completion of the Stewards investigation. Following requests from the parties legal counsels Stewards have allowed an extension for the lodging of submissions, with them now due by 5pm on 20 September 2018. The provisional restrictions placed upon Mr Jack, Mr Pitt and Ms Bartley shall remain in place pending final determination by the Stewards.
As the Magistrates Court decision regarding the criminal charges remains subject to an appeal period, HRV will not be making any further comment at this time.
