Top Aussie trainer Darren Weir banned for four years over devices used to give an ELECTRIC SHOCK to his runners
The multiple Group 1 winning trainer chose not to contest charges and was banned by Racing Victoria stewards
DISGRACED Australian trainer Darren Weir has been handed a four-year ban Down Under.
The 48-year-old chose not to fight charges of possession of devices used to give an electric shock to his horses.
The disqualification against the former top trainer, whose 36 Group 1 wins include the 2015 Melbourne Cup, will take effect immediately.
Last week, police and Racing Victoria stewards raided the stables of Weir, discovering four electric shock devices, an unregistered gun and cocaine.
The shock devices, known as jiggers, can deliver an electric shock to a horse in a race to force it to run faster.
Racing Victoria's Jamie Stier said: "Mr Weir will not be permitted to participate in the racing industry in any way over the four-year period, including, but not limited to, his participation in the training of horses, attending race meetings and licensed premises and deriving any benefit from the industry.
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"In the interests of Mr Weir's owners and staff and the welfare of horses, the stewards have granted permission for licensed trainer Michael Leonard to assume care of Mr Weir's horses for a period of up to 28 days whilst discussions continue for a permanent solution.
"During this 28-day period, Mr Leonard will be permitted to oversee the training of horses at Forest Lodge Stables, however he will not be permitted to nominate horses transferred to him from Mr Weir for any race or official trial.
"Given the size of Mr Weir's stables, the stewards have also granted an extended period of 10 business days for Mr Weir to coordinate the transfer of horses from his care."