Greyhound Racing NSW advises that a decision has been reached reGarding an inquiry into an incident occurring at the conclusion of the Richmond meeting on 7 May 2014, which involved registered attendant Susan Absalom and GRNSW Integrity Officer Norm Becroft.
Ms Absalom had been found guilty of two charges emanating from the incident. One charge under Gar 14 (6) of having furnished a false name to Mr Becroft after being requested to provide same and one charge under Gar 86 (f) (iii) of engaging in the use of insulting behaviour towards Mr Becroft as a member of the Controlling Body.
Ms Absalom was allowed time to prepare written submissions on penalty and has provided references in support. Having reGard to all of the circumstances of the case Ms Absalom was disqualified for a period of four months on each charge, to be served concurrently.
In considering penalty, stewards were mindful of the nature of the offence, the fact that this is the second such offence imposed upon Ms Absalom in the past two years, her presentation at the inquiries, precedents in relation to such offences and the representations made by Ms Absalom relative to the matter of penalty. Stewards were particularly mindful of the adverse effects such behaviour has on the image of the industry and the need for protection of integrity officers in the course of their duties.
The decision means Ms Absalom will be eligible to apply for registration again from 1 February 2015.
Ms Absalom has been advised of her right of appeal.
