NEWS
Paragallo trial scheduled to begin Tuesday
Posted: Monday, February 22, 2010 5:26 PM
by Frank Angst
New York-based Thoroughbred breeder-owner Ernie Paragallo will face animal cruelty charges at a trial scheduled to begin Tuesday.
Paragallo will face 35 misdemeanor animal cruelty charges in Green County Court, in Catskill, New York. According to Greene County District Attorney Terry Wilhelm, Paragallo has waived a jury trial and will plead his case directly to Judge George Pulver Jr.
Paragallo could face up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine for each count.
In April 2009, Paragallo’s Center Brook Farm was raided and 177 allegedly neglected Thoroughbreds were seized. Three horses had to be euthanized.
Paragallo has been stripped of racing privileges in New York by the New York Racing Association and the New York State Racing and Wagering Board. The Jockey Club could effectively remove Paragallo from racing by denying privileges of the American Stud Book if he is found guilty of any of the charges.
Frank Angst is senior writer for Thoroughbred Times
