Following a multi-day binding arbitration before an independent and neutral arbitrator, veterinarian Dr. Chris Newton was found to have fully prevailed against charges made against him by the US Center for SafeSport, according to a release from the law firm of Sparrow & Fairchild.
“As a result, the decision previously issued by the US Center for SafeSport was vacated, and the arbitrator determined that Dr. Newton can participate fully in all aspects of equestrian sport in the Olympic and Paralympic movement. All restrictions imposed upon him by the US Center for SafeSport have been lifted with immediate effect.
“In reaching this decision, the arbitrator noted that there had been a complete failure of proof, and specifically found that the claimant who made the accusations against Dr. Newton was not credible. The arbitrator also noted that the US Center for SafeSport withheld evidence, which impeded a full and fair adjudication of the matter until the US Center for SafeSport was ordered to disclose this withheld evidence shortly before the start of the arbitration hearing.”
Newton, who was suspended last June, has served as the team veterinarian for the North American Junior Young Rider Championships and as the treating veterinarian for the Kentucky Three-Day Event. He also competes in eventing.
Responding to the decision, Newton stated:
“Throughout this long and difficult process, I have maintained my belief that the truth would eventually come out, and that a just decision would be reached My faith in the process was tested by the campaign against me, which the arbitrator described as an attempt to defame me. But in the end, the truth prevailed, even if it took much longer than I wish it had. I would like to thank my lawyers who have stood with me and believed in me from the beginning. I have missed attending, working at and participating in equestrian sport, and I look forward to returning as soon as possible.”
Dr. Newton was jointly represented by Howard Jacobs and Roland Wiley from the Law Offices of Howard L. Jacobs (Westlake Village, CA); and Lee Fairchild from Sparrow & Fairchild (Ocala, FL).