No fraud found after probe of Hollywood Gaming race

AUSTINTOWN — No fraudulent activity was found in the investigation of a Nov. 4 race incident at Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course.

But a board of stewards did issue four fines and three suspensions to those involved.

The ninth race at Austintown’s Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course, 655 N. Canfield Niles Road, on Nov. 4 was under investigation by the Ohio State Racing Commission and racino operator Penn National Gaming.

Both opened an investigation after a horse that was entered into the race was found by a state veterinarian not to be the actual horse that had raced and won.

The winning horse’s markings, sex and lip tattoo were different from the horse entered into the race.

Those fined and suspended include: the horse identifier, Thomas M. Clark, who was suspended for 60 days and fined $500; trainer, Shane Spiess who was suspended for 30 days and fined $500; and exercise rider/trainer, Michael Micallef who received a 30-day suspension and fined $500.

Francisco C. Avina, a substitute trainer, was fined $200.

The ruling may be appealed.