Turf Paradise Owner's License Revoked

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.