OPELOUSAS, La. (KALB) – The Louisiana State Police Region 2 reported on November 8 that a horse jockey from Arizona was arrested on November 7 at the Evangeline Downs Racetrack and Casino (EVDRC) in Opelousas.

They said troopers with the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division were conducting an investigation into reported misconduct involving Martin Osuna, a horse jockey from Arizona.

Through the investigation, troopers determined that Osuna had falsified information on a racing document, which led to the issuance of a warrant.

When Osuna arrived at EVDRC ahead of a scheduled race, he was detained by authorities. Troopers searched his belongings and discovered five horse shocking devices, which violates Louisiana law regarding the ‘unnatural stimulation of horses’ and is considered unethical and harmful to the animals.

Osuna was arrested, was taken to St. Landry Parish Jail and was charged with the following crimes:

• filing false public documents
• falsifying information on a racing document
• injuring public records
• five counts of violating LA R.S. 4:175

Regarding the investigation the Louisiana State Police stated the following:

“The Louisiana State Police remains committed to upholding the highest standards in the gaming industry. The integrity of horse racing is a cornerstone of our work and vital to the trust and safety of all participants — both human and equine.”

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