Editor's Note: The following is the conclusion to the hearing of Wayne Jones.
The Walking Horse Trainers’ Association Ethics Committee held a hearing on Feb. 26, 2007. The hearing was to discuss the matter regarding an incident at the Kentucky After Christmas Sale on Feb. 2, 2007 at Tattersalls in Lexington, Ky.
After evidence was presented to the Committee, the Ethics Committee voted unanimously that you violated multiple points in our code of ethics (see below). Therefore, the Committee voted unanimously to suspend your Trainers license/membership for one year and that you are placed on a one-year probation following the suspension. Suspension to begin on Wednesday, March 14, 2007 and will run until March 14, 2008. Probation period will begin on March 15, 2008 until March 15, 2009. Any violation of the Code of Ethics during your probation period would require mandatory appearance before the Ethics Committee.
You may appeal this decision to the full board if you can present new evidence.
Walking Horse Trainers’ Association, Inc.
The Walking Horse Trainers’ Association recognized a need to improve the walking horse industry by enhancing the image of its members and licensed individuals by emphasizing the utmost professionalism. Consequently, this Association has committed itself to the promulgation of rules and regulations governing a Code of Ethics.
Individuals licensed by the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association shall accept and abide by the following ethical rules of conduct. Any individual who is found to be in violation of one, some, or all of the ethical rules shall be disciplined accordingly by the Board of Directors of the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association.
Misrepresent any data about a horse, which affects the sale of said animal.
Be a party to the a physical abuse of a horse by the trainer or anyone acting in his behalf, but every horse will be cared for, trained and/or exhibited to the best of the trainer’s ability.
To improve the image of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed.
Promote the ownership and showing of the Tennessee Walking Horse.
Improve all training techniques of the Tennessee Walking Horse.
Assist in promoting pleasure horse programs of the Tennessee Walking Horse industry.
Conduct all business transactions in a straightforward and honest manner. In sales transactions, said member will insist that all questions concerning a horse’s fitness and health receive the proper attention of a qualified veterinarian, upon the buyer’s request.