Victory! Jockey Banned for Life Following PETA’s Investigation Into Illegal Racing at Bush Tracks

Following a yearlong PETA investigation into jockey Jose Nicasio’s activities at bush tracks, the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) just suspended him for violating a CHRB regulation prohibiting racing licensees from participating in or being present at any unsanctioned, or “bush track,” race. The CHRB ruling also prohibits him from ever reapplying for a racing license. PETA submitted damning evidence showing Nicasio racing in dozens of bush races and repeatedly using an electric shock device on horses.

How PETA Helped Bust Jockey Jose Nicasio

The CHRB banned horse racing licensees—including owners, trainers, and jockeys—from participating in or attending bush track races starting in 2024 following a major PETA investigation, which documented rampant doping with methamphetamine, cocaine, and other drugs; the use of prohibited electric shock devices; fatal horse breakdowns; jockey injuries and deaths; and hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal gambling.

Nicasio ranked fifth in winnings among all Quarter Horse jockeys in California in 2025, has over $10 million in lifetime earnings, and has won multiple million-dollar races at Los Alamitos Race Course.

PETA first submitted evidence that Nicasio was racing at unsanctioned tracks in January 2024. The CHRB filed a complaint at that time. Still, the board’s stewards acquitted Nicasio after he lied during the subsequent hearing—falsely claiming that he was only “working out” horses at the track—even though the rule bans jockeys from being present at bush tracks on a race day. PETA continued to investigate Nicasio and re-presented evidence to the CHRB in November 2024, leading the board to conduct its own investigation, which corroborated PETA’s findings.

What Happens Next?

PETA has continued to amass evidence that jockeys are racing clandestinely at bush tracks during the day and then at Los Alamitos Race Course at night and is submitting fresh complaints to the CHRB for investigation.

How You Can Help Horses

The abuse of horses comes in many forms. On a bush track or anywhere else, if you see anyone abusing horses used for racing, be sure to report it. PETA will take your request for anonymity seriously.

Please also join us in urging Gov. Brian Kemp to take immediate action to shut down unregulated tracks operating in Georgia.