Ledford challenges Illinois

Seldon Ledford has filed an appeal with the Illinois Racing Board (IRB) that challenges the state’s reciprocity of his recent 10-year suspension given by the New Jersey Racing Commission for rule violations. A hearing is being held today (Wednesday, April 26) at the board offices in Chicago but no final decision is expected to come before the board meets May 9.

Harnessracing.com has learned Ledford is challenging the legality of the reciprocity rule claiming that he has yet to be given full due process in New Jersey. Ledford was given the lengthy suspension and fines totaling $12,000 after a New Jersey State Police raid on his barn March 31 at Showplace Farm revealed the presence of hypodermic needles and syringes. The New Jersey Commission also suspended Ledford for other violations that included the use of the prohibited drug Aranesp.

Following today’s hearing, Ledford could file a restraining order in Illinois requesting he be reinstated to compete until the IRB meets early next month. Ledford, along with the others that received suspensions and fines in this case—Ledford’s son, driver Eric Ledford, stable assistants Ryan and Ardena Dailey and veterinarian Dr. John Witmer—all requested stays of their penalties in New Jersey but were all denied in a ruling issued Tuesday, April 25.

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