Then, in September, the Racing Integrity Unit (RIU) investigated Hamilton after it received information he was involved with the training of horses at a property near Omakau. A racing investigator armed with binoculars and a recording device was sent to observe Hamilton at the property. Another racing investigator kept watch over the meeting from a vantage point, also armed with binoculars and a recording device. Though it was confirmed there were thoroughbred racehorses at the property, the inquiry heard that some of the horses Hamilton handled were hacks. The JCA found a charge that Hamilton assisted in the training, care and control of thoroughbred horses while disqualified proven.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 16, 2018 16:39 UTC