FURTHER GUILTY FINDINGS IN 'JIGGER' SCANDAL

By Graham Potter | Wednesday, February 8, 2023

The infamous jigger scandal which was uncovered at the Birdsville races last year has had a further sequel with Racenet.com reporting that trainer Todd Austin has been found guilty on three of the four charges he was originally issued with by stewards.

Toni Austin’s wife, Todd Austin’s wife, was found guilty on a charge of providing false or misleading evidence at a steward’s inquiry.

Jockey Ric McMahon has already pleaded guilty to possessing a jigger and providing false and misleading evidence at the inquiry hearing.

The scandal broke when a photograph was posted on social media revealing McMahon holding a device on a Austin trained horse during track-work.

Quotes attributed to the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) include: ‘Mr Austin is guilty of commissioning an act of cruelty to a horse and two charges of providing false or misleading evidence to stewards at the inquiry,’ ... and ... "An alternative charge issued to Mr Austin relating to the possession of the electronic device is not being pursued."

Todd Austin, Toni Austin and Ric McMahon have been given one week to make submissions regarding penalty.