A Canadian racehorse trainer has been sentenced to up to six years in prison for beating one of his horses to death. Frederick Bourgault, 27, was convicted of criminal mischief and interference with or injury to certain domestic animals in connection with the killing of the horse named Finish Line in July 2023 at the Pine Bush Training Facility in Crawford, New York.
The court heard that Bourgault struck the horse with a hard object, causing a linear depressed skull fracture that necessitated euthanasia. The horse was valued at over $5,000. Under New York's 'Rocky's Law', Bourgault must also register with an animal abuse registry within five days of release.
Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler condemned the act as “senseless violence” and highlighted the link between animal abuse and domestic violence. Bourgault is also awaiting sentencing for a separate conviction of attempted assault against a woman using her mobile phone.
Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action, said the conviction was important for a “heinous and inexcusable act of malicious cruelty”. Fred Hudson, director of equine protection, called Bourgault a “disgrace to harness racing” who should never be allowed near animals again.
