Cocaine in horse drug tests raises questions

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana racehorses have tested positive for cocaine, but how the drug got into their bodies is a matter of debate. A total of four horses tested positive for cocaine over the past two years, according to reports from the Indiana Horse Racing Commission, and some officials say that trend is continuing.

Don Horrell, past president of the Indiana Horsemen's Benevolent & Protective Association, said as many as 10 to 12 horses tested positive for the drug during the fall meet at Hoosier Park in Anderson. Madison County Prosecutor Rodney Cummings told The Herald Bulletin of Anderson for a story this week that at least one horse had tested positive, but he did not say when.

Indiana Horse Racing Commission Director Joe Gorajec was traveling and could not be reached for comment Thursday. An attorney for the commission said he was unfamiliar with the issue and could not comment.