Grim truth behind emoji greyhound pic as school bus driver is banned from owning the dogs

This seemingly happy picture of a school bus driver with a prized greyhound hides a twisted truth.

A school bus driver who arranged to have four of his racing dogs killed may face criminal charges after an investigation by a greyhound watchdog.

Collin Wasson, from Wagga Wagga, pleaded guilty to 16 offences at the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission (GIWC) earlier this month, which included arranging for a third party to kill four greyhounds on his behalf.

He was given a lifetime ban from greyhound racing with the commission also considering separate criminal charges.

Wasson was photographed giving a talk to school students in his role as a bus driver. Picture: The Daily Advertiser

Collin Wasson was given a lifetime ban. Picture: Supplied

GWIC’s Chief Commissioner Mr Alby Taylor called Wasson’s behaviour “appalling”.

“Being a greyhound racing participant is a privilege, not a right, and this participant will no longer enjoy such a privilege,” he said.

“Zero tolerance means exactly that.”

Wasson ordered the killing of his greyhounds Aston Shaker, Qatar Angel and Pennyroyal Tea along with an unnamed greyhound in his care.

The commission also found that Wasson attempted to mislead the investigation “by concealing his actions”.

“While those who oppose the greyhound racing industry will say this case is an example of an industry incapable of reform, this is not the case,” Mr Taylor said.

“This case highlights just how dedicated and serious the commission is about reform.”

Aston Shaker in the red number 1 bib during a race in 2020. Picture: Supplied

He was also charged with failing to notify the commission of their deaths, failing to maintain their kennels to a proper standard and failing to provide the dogs with appropriate veterinary care.

Aston Shaker ran in five races across 2020, winning a total $1525 prize money.

In a statement to news.com.au, GWIC said the investigation into criminal charges is still underway.

“Due to the ongoing nature of this investigation, at this stage it would not be suitable for the Commission to make further comment,” they said.

Originally published as Grim truth behind emoji greyhound pic as school bus driver is banned from owning the dogs