Trainer Jarrod McLean’s inquiry into animal cruelty charges is being held behind closed doors after a successful submission by his legal representative Patrick Wheelahan.

McLean was directed to attend the inquiry at Racing Victoria headquarters on Thursday after Victoria Police issued 16 charges against the Warrnambool horseman, including animal cruelty and cocaine possession.

McLean is the first of three licensed people called to separate inquiries at RV on Thursday.

Credit: AAP