Dutrow Says Ban Violates Civil Rights

Trainer Rick Dutrow Jr. has asked New York's top court to overturn his 10-year ban by the New York State Racing and Wagering Board, saying it raises substantial civil rights issues.

In requesting the Court of Appeals to hear Dutrow's case, attorney Michael Koenig said it should decide whether the appearance of bias by racing board chairman John Sabini cost the trainer his right to a fair proceeding over drug violations. In court papers, they said Sabini had a conflicting role as an officer of the Association of Racing Commissioners International, which advocated revoking Dutrow's license.

A mid-level New York court in July upheld the ban. State lawyers countered that the lower court found no evidence of actual bias, urging the top court to reject Dutrow's case.