Jockey arrested after being found with shocking device following race, detectives say
VINTON, La. (KPLC/Gray News) - A Louisiana jockey is facing allegations of cheating at the Delta Downs Racetrack and Casino.
On Saturday, detectives assigned to the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division arrested 41-year-old Ricardo Hernandez-Perez of Vinton.
After the races concluded Saturday, LSP detectives conducted post-race checks of each jockey.
According to LSP Public Affairs Officer Matt Gaspard, Hernandez-Perez tried to run from detectives while removing a battery-operated shocking device from his clothing and discarding it into one of the horse stalls.
Detectives eventually caught up to Hernandez-Perez, who was booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center for unnatural stimulation of horses.
Louisiana law prohibits anyone from possessing or using devices like electric batteries that can unnaturally stimulate, depress or excite a racehorse before or during a race. These devices cannot be in racetrack stables, sheds or other buildings on racetrack grounds where eligible horses are kept.
Anyone wishing to report illegal gaming activity can report it at 1-800-434-8007.
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