NEW YORK (AP) — Jason Servis, the trainer for disqualified Derby winner Maximum Security, was one of two dozen trainers, veterinarians and others charged in what authorities called an international scheme to drug horses to race faster.
The charges were detailed in four indictments unveiled Monday in Manhattan federal court. U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Berman scheduled a news conference to discuss the charges.
The indictments said Jason Servis administered PEDs to virtually all racehorses under his control.
Maximum Security finished first in the 2019’s Kentucky Derby before being disqualified for interference.
Prosecutors noted in the indictments that professional horse racing is a $100 billion industry followed by millions of fans worldwide.
Racehorses can sell at auction for well over $1 million. Authorities say the drugs can cause horses to overexert themselves, leading to heart issues or death.
Kitty Block, President and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States in released an official statement:
“The reprehensible actions described in the racehorse doping scandal announced today are likely just the tip of the iceberg for this industry. In the last year, we’ve seen more than 40 horses die at a renowned track, a hall of fame trainer banned by multiple tracks able to simply hopscotch to another state, a Triple Crown winner’s drug results covered up, and now 27 trainers, vets and drug distributors indicted – including the trainer of a horse who just won the world’s richest race with a purse of 10 million dollars. These individuals, and the industry, must be held accountable. Congress needs to pass the Horseracing Integrity Act to improve the welfare of racehorses throughout the country, and bring the industry into the modern century.”
Churchill Downs, Darren Rogers, Senior Director of Communications and Media Services released a statement:
“Criminal behavior or actions that put the well-being of horses at risk, such as the disappointing developments revealed by the U.S. Southern District of New York today, will not be tolerated at Churchill Downs. We remain committed to protecting the integrity of our racing product and upholding the confidence of our fans and participants.”
Bill Thomason, President and CEO of the Keeneland Association released a statement on the indictments:
“The administration of illegal medication and other improper substances to our equine athletes, as outlined by the indictments brought forth by federal prosecutors, is simply unacceptable. Putting profits and self-interest over the safety and integrity of our sport and its athletes has never, and will never, be tolerated by Keeneland. As the legal proceedings against the individuals identified by federal prosecutors unfold, the Thoroughbred racing community must continue to strengthen our screening processes. In the meantime, Keeneland will suspend the individuals in question from participating in training, racing or sales activities on our property. We have faith in the legal system and appreciate the work of the federal law enforcement, including the Southern District of New York U.S. Attorney’s office. Ensuring the safety and well-being of these horses will always be our top priority.”
► Make it easy to stay up-to-date with stories and breaking news. Download the WHAS11 News app now