Brit snooker star Stephen Lee is the latest high profile sportsman to be investigated as the UK drive against sports betting corruption continues The 35-year-old was arrested by West Midlands police on suspicions regarding questionable betting patterns, but was later released on bail, which could mean his next appearance in court, if any, could be three or four months hence.

Spokesmen for the snooker ace said he had not been formally charged although he had been questioned by the police and had cooperated fully, and that he did not expect to be charged.

The Guardian newspaper reported that Lee was arrested on suspicion of cheating following a joint operation involving the police force and the UK Gambling Commission.

The arrest was made under section 42 of the Gambling Act 2005, which states: 'A person commits an offence if he (a) cheats at gambling, or (b) does anything for the purpose of enabling or assisting another person to cheat at gambling.'

World Snooker, the commercial arm of governing body the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, today said they were awaiting further developments.

A World Snooker statement read: 'We are aware of the recent news articles concerning match-fixing and are awaiting further reports.

'In instances where the Gambling Commission commences an investigation into a match, the WPBSA work together with the Commission to assist in their enquiries and the WPBSA will hold their own investigation open pending the conclusion.

'However, neither the Commission nor the WPBSA will release information surrounding a betting matter while an investigation is ongoing.'

---

News directly to your Inbox   RSS   Print Article

Similar Articles