Greyhounds Stewards Inquiry Mr John Edwards
RWWA Stewards today concluded an inquiry into comments posted on Facebook on 20 October, 2017 by previously licensed Greyhound T2 Trainer and Breeder Mr John Edwards.
Mr Edwards had previously refused to attend a Stewards inquiry into this matter and had been disqualified forthwith until such time as he attended the inquiry. At Mr Edwards request the inquiry resumed on 22 January, 2019.
After hearing evidence from Mr John Edwards and Senior Investigative Steward Mr Paul Criddle, Mr Edwards pleaded guilty to the two following charges;
1st Charge – GAR 86 (ag), for failing to comply with a policy adopted by a Controlling Body by posting comments on Facebook which were considered by the Stewards to be detrimental to the image of greyhound racing.
2nd Charge – GAR 86 (e), for failing to attend an inquiry when he had been directed to do so by Stewards.
After hearing submissions on the question of penalty from Mr Edwards, Stewards adjourned in order to consider the matter of penalty.
In relation to the first charge (ag), Mr Edwards was disqualified for a period of 21 months.
In relation to the second charge (e), Mr Edwards was fined $500.00.
In considering the penalties imposed on Mr Edwards, Stewards were mindful of the following facts;
- Mr Edwards’s early and guilty pleas to both charges
- His extensive and lengthy involvement in the Industry
- His personal circumstances
- The seriousness of the offences
- The need to send a clear message to Mr Edwards and the wider Racing Industry that the posting of comments that are potentially defamatory or detrimental to the image of greyhound racing would not be tolerated