At its June 29 meeting, the Louisiana State Racing Commission issued major disciplinary actions against three trainers. Eduardo L. Morales received an immediate lifetime ban after the Louisiana State Police found an extensive cache of unauthorized contraband—including hypodermic needles, syringes, and injectable medications—in his Delta Downs barn.
Under formal plea agreements, trainer Esau Hernandez received a two-year suspension (through June 29, 2028), a subsequent two-year probation (through June 30, 2030), and purse disqualifications. Trainer Alex P. Clark received a six-month suspension (through December 17, 2026), a one-year probation, a $1,000 fine, and a purse disqualification, with any probation violation triggering an automatic one-year suspension. Both Hernandez and Clark waived all further rights to appeal.
These three trainers had a combined 102 horses under their care at the time of the suspensions. In order to compete again, each of these horses must be transferred to a licensed Louisiana trainer, work in front of a LSRC Veterinarian, and have a clear blood and urine test. The transfer must be approved by a LSRC State Steward and a fee of $500 must be paid for each horse to cover the cost of these protocols.
