The Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission (OHRC) has issued Emergency Summary Suspension Orders against three licensed horsemen.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK—JULY 29, 2026—The Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission (OHRC) has issued Emergency Summary Suspension Orders against licensed horsemen Stephen M. Wright, Linda C. Arrossa, and Gregg Gibson following findings indicating potential violations that placed equine welfare at risk.

According to the Commission, the emergency actions were taken under Oklahoma's Rules of Racing, which authorize immediate suspensions when evidence suggests a horse's safety may be compromised. The rule allows regulators to act without delay while the underlying matters proceed through the state's established administrative process.

"Our responsibility is to act when the evidence requires it," said OHRC Executive Director Amanda English. "When a horse's well-being may have been compromised, immediate steps are necessary to protect the animal and maintain the integrity of racing in our state."

The Commission also expressed its support for the actions taken by the Oklahoma State Stewards, noting that the officials acted within their regulatory authority to address concerns involving horse safety.

"Their determinations safeguard both horse safety and public confidence in the fairness and integrity of racing in Oklahoma," the Commission said in its statement.

OHRC emphasized that Emergency Summary Suspensions are intended as protective measures rather than disciplinary actions. The suspensions allow regulators time to conduct a full review of the circumstances while ensuring appropriate safeguards remain in place.

Each of the three licensees retains the right to due process under Oklahoma law, and the cases will proceed through formal administrative hearings where the evidence will be evaluated.

The Commission said it remains committed to enforcing the state's Rules of Racing consistently while maintaining the standards necessary to protect racehorses and preserve the integrity of Oklahoma horse racing.

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