Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) Stewards have charged a further seven persons – six who were previously suspended – under the Greyhound Australasia Rules (GAR) and Local Racing Rules (LRR) for their alleged involvement in live baiting activities at the Tooradin Trial Track.

In total, 21 charges were laid by GRV Stewards against the seven persons and their cases will now be heard by the independent Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board (RADB).

Six of the seven persons charged were suspended earlier in the year when video footage allegedly showing them involved in live baiting activities at the Tooradin Trial Track was supplied to GRV by the Racing Integrity Commissioner. A further person, Diane Hodges, has also been charged for her alleged involvement in actions that breach the rules of greyhound racing following a Stewards’ investigation into the Tooradin Trial Track.

The seven persons charged are: Paul Anderton; Kerry Chalker; Diane Hodges; Kenneth Hodges; Neville King; James Reynolds; and Robert Smith.

GRV Chairman, Bernie Carolan, said that that GRV Stewards have conducted a thorough and extensive investigation into these matters.

“Live baiting is a horrible indictment on the greyhound racing industry and people that are proved to be involved in the deplorable act have severely let the broader greyhound racing industry down and for that they should be ashamed and penalised,” Mr Carolan said.

“GRV Stewards have been diligent and comprehensive in their investigation.”

So far, four life bans and two significant disqualification periods have been handed down by the RADB as a result of charges emanating from the investigation into the Tooradin Trial Track. The remaining cases relating to this issue will be heard by the RADB in due course.