GWIC Drop Weekes Cruelty Charges

THE Greyhound Welfare & Integrity Commission (GWIC) has elected to withdraw its charges laid against Toby Weekes under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.

The Commission has also lifted the interim-suspension placed on Weekes following an internal review of the matter which occurred in April, 2020.

“The Greyhound Welfare & Integrity Commission has become aware of a technical irregularity in the Court Attendance Notice filed against Mr Toby Weekes,” a GWIC statement read. 

“As a result of this irregularity the Commission, as a model litigant, considers that the most appropriate course of action is to seek a withdrawal of the prosecution under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979.

“The Commission has also determined to revoke Mr Weekes' interim suspension, following an internal review of the interim suspension.”

Earlier this week, an emotional Weekes spoke to the Greyhound Recorder, declaring his intentions to rigorously defend the charges before him.

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“I'd like to say thanks to everyone that reached out to me after reading the article and what occurred,” Weekes said.

“For me it was important the matter was set straight and make sure people knew the true story.

“I'm relieved to get the news today so things can get back to normal.”

While GWIC have announced their decision to revoke criminal charges and lift the interim-suspension, the door has still been left ajar on the matter.

“The Commission still considers the alleged conduct by Mr Weekes to be sufficiently serious as to potentially warrant disciplinary action under the Greyhound Racing Rules,” the statement read. 

“The Commission maintains its strong commitment to investigating any alleged breach of animal welfare standards, and will take disciplinary action where appropriate.”