The Ohio University Police Department is currently investigating several members of the Ohio baseball team, following accusations of their involvement in illegal sports betting.
The Director of Athletics, Kirby Hocutt, confirmed the investigation yesterday. It was prompted by an anonymous email received by Hocutt and the team coach Joe Carbone on the 28th November. The email claimed that 'upwards of 50 people' were regularly engaging in sports betting and 'receiving cash payouts in the thousands of dollars'.
The email also alleged that those involved were betting on Ohio sporting events as well as other events, however Hocutt commented that he does not believe that Ohio sports betting was taking place.
Hocutt has assured fans that they will assist with the investigation, although he refused to comment on the details of the case – such as which players are believed to be involved. 'As it goes along, we will be open and transparent', he said 'We will share the facts that we can as we can, but with this being an open investigation, I'm not at liberty to discuss any details.
Athletes must sign a waiver for the NCAA saying that they have not participated in, nor are they aware of any sports wagering activities. If any athletes have been found to have been betting on sports – be they collegiate or professional, then they will be banned from competition for at least one year.
Email this page
Print this page
Bookmark with del.icio.us
