A top Group 1-winning jockey has been handed a huge ban following allegations of sexual misconduct from five women.
Australian jockey James Innes Jr has been hit with one of the biggest bans in the history of horse racing following an official hearing looking into multiple allegations of sexual misconduct against him.
The 30-year-old last rode on August 30 and officially stood down from racing in Australia in September 11 after stewards issued eight charges against him, although it is not clear if these charges are related.
His licence was originally suspended following the decision, pending a hearing into each of the allegations, which has now taken place.
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Following the hearing, it has been confirmed that Innes Jr's suspension has been made into a 25-year, essentially ending his career in the saddle.
According to Australian outlet racenet, the exact nature of the incidents have been withheld, but evidence given by victims during a previous hearing detailed exactly how they had been the subject of sexual misconduct from the jockey.
The evidence claims that the alleged incidents took place at a stable and licensed premises.
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Although he didn't attend the inquiry in person, it is believed that Innes Jr was present via online video calling platform Zoom.
After the ban was confirmed, Innes Jr, who has enjoyed a successful career with 331 race wins and £6.5million in prize money earnings, has not yet appealed the finding.
The 30-year-old has previously been investigated by the Racing New South Wales Integrity Unit, but the governing body has not issued any comment on the case, and it is believed no further details will be released
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It is understood that the findings of the inquiry have been shared with the New South Wales Police Force, but it remains unclear whether an investigation will be launched.
Sources told the Australian outlet that none of the complainants wanted to further pursue the matter or make statements at this stage.
As it stands, no criminal charges have been laid.
Innes Jr's career highlight came during the Covid pandemic as his win in the the Group 1 Doncaster Mile at Randwick left him in tears.
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The Australian rode 40-1 outsider Nettoyer to victory in the April 2020 race, winning a pay day of more than £500,000.
Topics: Horse Racing, Australia
Ben McCrum