Topeka ? The state on Wednesday filed criminal charges against the former general manager of The Woodlands racetrack, and sought the public’s help in tracking him down.

The charges allege James Gartland engaged in illegal betting at the Kansas City, Kan., horse and dog track by allowing patrons to place bets without paying.

Attorney General Paul Morrison said Gartland is believed to be out of the country.

“If you have information about the whereabouts of James Gartland, please contact the attorney general’s office immediately,” Morrison said.

He said calls should be made to (785) 296-0512.

The charges stem from an investigation launched by the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission.

Last year, Gartland paid a $300 fine after pleading no contest to having a gambler place wagers equaling $300 to $400 to help cover shortfalls in a wagering pool. The track would cover the wagers from funds designated for “customer relations,” the state complaint stated.

In its pleadings, the state alleged that the gambler who received betting tickets through the “free wagers” actually won once, which reduced the winnings of other bettors.

But in an interview in February with the Lawrence Journal-World, Gartland denied any wrongdoing.

He said he was simply trying to get the Tri-Superfecta up to the required $5,000 pool.

“Nobody made any money; nobody got cheated,” he said at the time.