New York's top court has rejected Kentucky Derby-winning thoroughbred trainer Rick Dutrow Jr.'s appeal to overturn his 10-year ban by state regulators because of what he claimed were substantial civil rights issues.
In asking the Court of Appeals to hear Dutrow's case, attorney Michael Koenig said it should decide whether the appearance of bias by Racing and Wagering Board Chairman John Sabini cost the trainer his right to a fair proceeding over drug violations.
He argued Sabini had a conflicting role as an officer of the Association of Racing Commissioners International, which advocated revoking his license.
The dismissal says there is "no substantial constitutional question involved."
The ban has been stayed pending appeals.
Koenig says they will next seek permission to appeal for "a whole variety of reasons."
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.
