updated 2:51 p.m. ET Sept. 2, 2007

NEW HAVEN, Conn. - Ten performers suspended by World Wrestling Entertainment were punished for ordering drugs, mostly human growth hormones, that violate the company’s drug policy, a WWE lawyer said Friday.

WWE said it issued suspension notices based on independent information from the Albany County, N.Y., district attorney’s office, which has been investigating sales of steroids and growth hormones through Internet and phone-order firms.

The wrestlers had ordered drugs prohibited by WWE policy, company attorney Jerry McDevitt said.

The company did not release the names of those suspended. No criminal charges had been filed.

Human growth hormone occurs naturally in the body, and synthetic versions have been prescribed for children with growth issues and adults with pituitary gland problems. The synthetic version has become popular with athletes because it is believed to help build muscle mass.

WWE policy begun requires a 30-day suspension without pay for a first violation, a 60-day suspension for a second violation and firing for a third violation. Performers are tested at least four times per year.

Stamford-based WWE has about 160 wrestlers. WWE shares closed Friday at $15.14, up 34 cents.

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