Turf Paradise Owner's License Revoked

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The Arizona Department of Racing has revoked the license of Turf Paradise owner Jerry Simms, the Arizona Republic reported. Regulators cited his alleged ties to organized crime and involvement in a California bribery scandal.

Simms has multiple appeals pending, though, and will remain in control of the Phoenix racetrack in the interim. The appeal process could take a year or more, the newspaper reported.

Turf Paradise opened for its customary meet in late September. Racing will be unaffected by the department's action.

The Department of Racing granted Simms a license in May 2000 despite evidence of possible bribery. An investigation revealed a $2.2-million series of loans from Simms to former casino owner Allen Glick, whom federal authorities have called a front for Mafia interests, officials said.

Simms is the majority owner of Turf Paradise.

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