St. Martin natives arrested for fixing horse races

Three Louisiana jockeys, including two brothers from the Grand Anse area of St. Martin Parish, were arrested on suspicion of fixing races at Evangeline Downs.
Following an extensive investigation by the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division, troopers arrested Joseph Patin Jr., 46, and his brother, 51- year-old Billy Patin, both of Opelousas, and LeSean Conyers, 24, of Lafayette.
The trio, all jockeys at Evangeline Downs, are charged with “willful pulling of the reins, cheating and swindling,” according to Master Trooper Brooks David, public affairs officer for Louisiana State Police Troop I.
The arrests stem from a complaint received from the Louisiana Racing Commission alleging that during a race on June 19, the three suspects engaged in questionable riding tactics that affected the outcome of the race. Through interviews and evidence obtained from track officials, troopers determined the jockeys willfully schemed to hold back a horse picked as a favorite to win while utilizing an agent to place unusual bets in an attempt to maximize winnings,” David said.
Also the Patin brothers were arrested on warrants for the “unnatural stimulation of horses” (possession of electronic shocking device). Evidence in two separate races on July 4 revealed that the jockeys possessed hand held shocking devices while competing in races at Evangeline Downs, the Troop I spokesman said.
“Troopers from our Gaming Enforcement Division worked closely with racing officials to conduct a swift and thorough investigation into the allegations of race fixing at the Evangeline Downs Race Track,” said Col. Mike Edmonson, State Police superintendent.
“Louisiana State Police remains committed to the regulation of gaming and the enforcement of criminal gambling laws to safeguard our citizens against corrupt and dishonest practices,” Edmonson said.
“Horseracing in Louisiana has been a prominent aspect of the state’s sports history,” said Bob Wright, chairman of the Louisiana Racing Commission.
“The Louisiana State Racing Commission is dedicated to the maintenance of a high quality sport and a fair playing field for its many pari-mutuel fans and an important economic industry,” Wright said. “Any deviations from honest and truly competitive horseracing cannot be condoned and the Commission remains vigilant in its efforts to assure the highest standards possible.”