A NSW Greyhound Trainer Allegedly Gave His Dog Alcohol To Rig A Race
The trainer has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
A NSW greyhound trainer has been charged after allegedly giving the dog alcohol in an attempt to influence race results.
Augustus Leslie Weekes, a 63-year-old man, was arrested and charged in relation to an incident at a race in central western New South Wales. The event took place last year but he was arrested last month after police learned of the alleged crime while investigating a separate suspected criminal syndicate that Weekes is not believed to be involved in.
Police allege that Weekes gave one of his own dogs alcohol prior to a race meeting, before betting — and winning $4000 — on a rival dog.
He appeared in Orange Local Court on Thursday where he has been charged with four offences including two charges of using corrupt information to bet on an event, one count of engaging in conduct that corrupts the betting outcome of an event, and possessing corrupt conduct information to communicate to others.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, but has been suspended from racing pending the finalisation of the charges. There is no suggestion that Weekes is guilty of any wrongdoing.
“I treat animals the way I treat humans,” he told media outside the court following his appearance.
In a statement provided to Junkee, the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission confirmed it was assisting police.
“Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission inspectors and NSW police attended the property of a greyhound racing participant in the Central West of NSW on Wednesday 20 July 2022,” a statement read. “The greyhound racing participant has been arrested and the Commission is assisting police with their enquiries.
“The participant is currently interim-suspended, pending criminal charges.
“As this matter is before the courts, the Commission is unable to comment any further.”
It is not believed that Weekes has been charged with anything relating to animal cruelty after allegations he gave his greyhound alcohol.
Photo Credit: Greyhound Coalition