Kansas AG Morrison Charges Former Woodlands General Manager, Seeks Public Assistance

August 22, 2007 -- Kansas Attorney General Paul Morrison today announced criminal charges against James Gartland, former general manager of the Woodlands racetrack in Wyandotte County, and is seeking assistance from the public in locating him.

Gartland was charged with three counts of Making False Information, a Level 8, Non-Person Felony, and four counts of Computer Crimes, a Level 8, Non-Person Felony.

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The State alleges that Gartland allowed patrons to place bets without paying. They also allege that he caused false reports to be made and caused computers to be used to make false financial entries to conceal his actions. Track employees are not permitted to allow people to place bets without paying.

Although it is believed that he is currently out of the country, Gartland will likely continue to have contact with individuals in Kansas.

“If you have information about the whereabouts of James Gartland, please contact the Attorney General’s Office immediately,” Morrison said. Calls should be directed to the investigator at (785) 296-0152.

The charges filed were based on an investigation started by the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission in 2006.

“We are pleased with the work of the Racing and Gaming Commission in regulating their industry,” Morrison said. “As we move forward with expanded gaming in Kansas, it is critical that we ensure the law is followed and enforced, and that we quash any hint of corruption immediately.”

These charges represent the culmination of an exhaustive investigation by the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission.

“The Racing and Gaming Commission will keep a trained eye on the gaming industry in Kansas and will continue to be vigilant as the gambling industry expands,” Stephen Martino, Executive Director of the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission said. “The criminal charges against Mr. Gartland justify our careful work, and I am pleased that Attorney General Morrison and his staff treated this matter as seriously as the Racing and Gaming Commission and its staff did."

These charges are merely allegations and Mr. Gartland will be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Source: Kansas Attorney General