The Trial of Tommy Arnold

Defendant: Mr Thomas Arnold Prosecution: BUAFC Golf Committee Date of Allegation: 30.06.2014 Location: Paulton’s Golf Club, Southampton, UK Overview During the Day 2 of the Southampton Invitational, a retrospective allegation of foul play was made against Mr Arnold. This hearing will determine if in fact foul play did take place, and if so, the necessary retrospective action. The Allegation The defendant has been accused of the following offences: 1. That Mr Arnold did carry an identical spare ball on his person during round 3 of the Southampton Invitational 2. That Mr Arnold replaced his ball in play without ruling to do so. Directly contravening rule 20:6 of the R&A rules of golf. The Procedure To determine if an offence took place, the Match Referee sought two independent statements from eye witnesses to Mr Arnold’s actions during round 3 of the Southampton Invitational. Findings As a result of this hearing, the following are now matters of fact: 1. The defendant did carry an identical ball to the ball ‘in play’ on his person 2. Whilst both witnesses were unable to categorically state that the defendant did breach rule 20:6, there are doubts and suspicions of Mr Arnold’s behaviour Verdict Mr Arnold is guilty of Allegation 1. Mr Arnold is not guilty of Allegation 2. Conclusion By carrying an identical playing ball on his person, Mr Arnold has created reasonable doubt as to his intentions towards the BUAFC Golf Society. It should also be noted however, that this allegation does not directly infringe Official Golf Rules. The Match Referee would also like to note that Mr Arnold’s case has brought the morals and ethics of the BUAFC Golf Society in to question, and ultimately disrepute. The following sentences are suggested: A suspended sentence of 4 stableford points. Should Mr Arnold be found guilty of Allegation 1 for a second time, this penalty will automatically be deducted from his overall society score. 1 x drinks related fine. As the defendant is indeed the Committee Fines officer, that Match Referee chooses to appoint Committee Chairman Liam Hope as Interim Fines officer. Mr Arnold will not return to his role as Fines Officer until the fine is paid in full. Actions: In light of this hearing, the Match Referee will now introduce the following Society rules: Golfers found to be carrying an additional ball to the ball ‘in play’ should be reported to the Match Referee as a matter of urgency. This will be a breach of society rules, with a standard penalty of 2 x stableford points.