Louisiana Jockeys Arrested In Cheating Probe

State Police arrested one man from Lafayette and two from Opelousas in an investigation of fixing races.

The Louisiana Racing Commission received a complaint that during a June 19 race, three people were engaged in "questionable riding tactics" that had an impact on the race results.

Troopers arrested 24-year-old LeSean Conyers of Lafayette along with 46-year-old Joseph Patin Jr. and 51-year-old Billy Patin both from Opelousas.

They were all arrested for willful pulling of the reins and cheating and swindling.

Troopers interviewed track officials, and they determined the jockeys "willfully schemed to hold back a horse picked as a favorite to win while utilizing an agent to place unusual bets in an attempt to maximize winnings."

Joseph Patin, Jr. and Billy Patin were also arrested for unnatural stimulation of horses meaning possession of an electronic shocking device.

State Police says their evidence gathered in two races on July 4, showed that the jockeys had used handheld shocking devices during their two races at Evangline Downs.

Colonel Mike Edmonson says,

“Troopers from our Gaming Enforcement Division worked closely with racing officials to conduct a swift and thorough investigation into the allegations of race fixing at the Evangeline Downs Race Track. Louisiana State Police remains committed to the regulation of gaming and the enforcement of criminal gambling laws to safeguard our citizens against corrupt and dishonest practices.”

Louisiana Racing Commission Chairman Bob Wright had this to say,

“Horseracing in Louisiana has been a prominent aspect of the state’s sports history.  The Louisiana State Racing Commission is dedicated to the maintenance of a high quality sport and a fair playing field for its many pari-mutuel fans and an important economic industry. Any deviations from honest and truly competitive horseracing cannot be condoned and the Commission remains vigilant in its efforts to assure the highest standards possible.”