Kody Charles Fined $10,000 For Involvement In Graham Berry Inquiry
RWWA Stewards yesterday completed their inquiry with respect to Greyhound Trainer Mr Kody Charles arising from the inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the presence of 61 greyhounds at a Nambeelup Park kennel property, the persons associated with these greyhounds and the actions and associations of registered persons with disqualified person Mr Graham Berry.
Following previous inquiries where evidence was taken from numerous persons, at a hearing on 30 July 2014, Mr Charles pleaded not guilty to a charge issued under GAR 86 (h) with the particulars being that Mr Charles had attempted to interfere with the conduct of an investigation taking place on 9 April 2014 by telephoning disqualified person Mr Graham Berry shortly after the Stewards had left Mr Charles' property when he was requested not to do so.
Following deliberation Mr Charles was found guilty and appeared before Stewards yesterday to make submissions on the question of penalty.
In considering an appropriate penalty, Stewards took into account, amongst other things;
– Mr Charles previous unblemished record across all codes (except for routine driving offences in harness)
– Mr Charles youth and personal circumstances
– Mr Charles significant level of involvement and investment in Thoroughbred, Harness and Greyhound Racing and the consequent extended implications disqualification would have in all the codes
– The seriousness and circumstances of the offence
Stewards issued a fine of $10,000 for the above offence.
Inquiries in relation to charges issued to Mr T Mullany, Ms L Hulsinga and Mr G Berry continue to be progressed, with penalties already issued to Mr D Biddle, Miss R Watson, and Mr G Price arising from this investigation as previously advised.