The Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) today released its standardbred ruling in regard to the appeal of Jay

Polifroni.

Standardbred licensee Jay Polifroni appealed Ruling SB 41967, dated July 10, 2010, wherein he was suspended for 45 days, fined $1,000 and put on probation for a period of two years for violating Rules 6.20(b), 6.20(c), 22.23.03(e), 22.3.05 and 26.02.01 of the Rules of Standardbred Racing, for maltreatment of the horse “Tricky Prospect”.

On September 16, 2010, a Panel of the Ontario Racing Commission consisting of Chair Rod Seiling, Commissioner David Gorman and Commissioner Brenda Walker, was convened to hear the appeal.

Angela Holland appeared as counsel for the Administration, Polifroni attended the hearing, and James Evans appeared as counsel for Polifroni.

Upon hearing the testimony of Associate Judge Troy Rossignol, Phil Belanger, Isabelle Darveau, Pascal Berube, Jim Stewart, Dion McLean and Polifroni, upon reviewing the exhibits filed and upon hearing the submissions of counsel for the Administration and counsel for Polifroni, the Panel denied the appeal but varied the penalty. The penalty was varied as follows:

i. The suspension is increased to 90 days, with 60 days stayed, accordingly Polifroni is suspended for 30 days (October 3, 2010 – November 2, 2010);
ii. The fine is increased to $1,500;
iii. Polifroni must enrol in a recognized anger management program approved by the Judges at Sudbury Downs;
iv. Polifroni will be on probation for two years (November 3, 2010 – November 3, 2012), subject to the normal terms and conditions. If during the probation period Polifroni violates any rule related to whipping a horse, or to the health and welfare of a horse, the stay will automatically expire.

To view the official ruling with the Panel's Reason for Decisions, click here.

(With files from ORC)