NASCAR slams two more cheaters

NASCAR announced today that one NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series crew member has been fined and suspended and two crew chiefs penalized due to rule violations leading up to and during the Feb. 16 event at Daytona International Speedway.

Richard Riley, crew member of the No. 88 Chevrolet, has been fined $5,000 and suspended for the next six NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events through May 30. Riley also has been placed on probation until Dec. 31.

Riley was penalized for violating Sections 12-4-A, actions detrimental to stock car racing, for verbal abuse to a NASCAR official; and Section 12-4-D, a crew member who threatens to do bodily harm to a NASCAR official, of the 2007 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Rule Book. The violations occurred during the race itself.

Matt Puccia, crew chief of the No. 50 Ford, was fined $500 for violating Section 12-4-A, actions detrimental to stock car racing; and Section 20B-16.1D, alteration of the fuel cell check valve assembly, of the 2007 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Rule Book. The violation occurred during opening day inspection.

Vance Haefele, crew chief of the No. 88 Chevrolet, was fined $500 for violating Section 12-4-A, actions detrimental to stock car racing; Section 12-4-Q, determination by NASCAR officials that the truck, truck parts, components and/or equipment used in the event do not conform to NASCAR Rules; and Section 20B-20B-2.3, added weight must be in an approved weight container (fuel cell top rack), of the 2007 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Rule Book. The violation occurred during opening day inspection.