Enforcement Division
The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) Enforcement Division is one of the most unique entities in California. All staff are sworn peace officers pursuant to the California Penal Code and the CHRB is a participating agency with the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). This ensures all personnel are properly vetted prior to employment through a rigorous interview process, comprehensive background investigation, medical suitability determination and psychological screening. All sworn peace officers have completed a basic law enforcement or specialized investigator academy. They are required to participate in ongoing perishable skills training including defensive tactics, first aid, and legal updates, as well as quarterly firearms certification.
The primary responsibility of the CHRB Enforcement Division is investigating violations of the CHRB Rules and Regulations, as well as other statutes related to horse racing and animal welfare. Most CHRB violations are handled administratively through a hearing conducted by the Board of Stewards. These hearings are held in response to a Complaint filed by a CHRB investigator and the proceedings are very similar to any other legal hearing, with a ruling (and penalty when appropriate), issued by the Board of Stewards.
CHRB personnel have the authority to investigate other crimes such as assault, battery, drug and weapons violations, and fraud, particularly when they occur at a CHRB licensed facility.
CHRB investigators are assigned to CHRB licensed racetracks across the state. During certain times of the year, investigators are temporarily assigned to other locations to provide investigative services at race meetings conducted at fairs throughout the California.
For information on current vacancies within the Enforcement Division, please visit our Careers page.