Bryan issues statement on closure of illegal horse track on St. Croix

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. issued a statement on July 9, 2020, addressing the closure of what Government House described as an illegal horse racing track on St. Croix.

In the statement, Bryan said the government could not ignore illegal activity once it was brought to its attention and said the action was taken because of the government's responsibility to protect residents' safety.

Government House said the activity involved trespassing, was not sanctioned by the Horse Racing Commission, and included illegal and unauthorized betting and gambling. It also said the racing surface was dangerous for riders and horses, spectators were often within feet of the horses, and the gatherings violated public-health emergency restrictions on mass gatherings, including social-distancing and face-covering requirements.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-addresses-closure-of-illegal-horse-track/