Detectives from the QPS embedded in the Queensland Racing Crime Squad (QRCS) have concluded a four-month investigation into allegations of threats, intimidation and assault in the Queensland harness racing industry.
On February 1, a 32-year-old Molendinar man was charged with one count of assault occasioning bodily harm and two counts of common assault (against three harness racing participants).
The QRCS worked closely with the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC), Integrity Regulatory Unit throughout the course of the investigation.
“This investigation and arrest demonstrates the excellent working relationship which has been established between the QPS and the QRIC and the results that can be achieved through mutual cooperation,” Detective Superintendent Jon Wacker of the State Crime Command’s Drug and Serious Crime Group said.
QRIC Commissioner Ross Barnett said the investigation included the first coercive hearings program undertaken by the Commission where witnesses were compelled to attend and give evidence on oath.
“It is important to ensure people in the racing industry can carry out their jobs without threats or fear of intimidation,” Barnett said.
“This arrest highlights the important role of an independent body such as QRIC to ensure the reporting of incidents and criminal activity within the racing industry will be vigorously and independently investigated.”
Since its inception on July 1 2016 the QPS QRCS has been co-located with the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission and is tasked with investigating serious animal cruelty, major and organized crime including race fixing across all three codes of racing.
The 32-year-old man has been bailed to appear in the Southport Magistrates Court on February 15.
(Queensland Police)