Frederick Bourgault, a Canadian man, has been convicted of all charges in connection with the fatal beating of a racehorse named “Finish Line” at the Pine Bush Training Facility in the Town of Crawford. Bourgault was charged with second-degree criminal mischief and felony interference with or injury to certain domestic animals for causing a linear depressed skull fracture that led to the horse’s euthanization. Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler emphasized the importance of justice for the victimized horse and stated that abusers will not be tolerated in society.
Bourgault is set to be sentenced on July 7 following an investigation into the horse’s death by the New York State Police, Orange County District Attorney’s Office, and the New York State Gaming Commission. The NYS Gaming Commission provided expert witnesses and aided in Bourgault’s arrest. District Attorney Hoovler expressed gratitude to the NYSP and the NYS Gaming Commission for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution of Bourgault’s crimes.
Sarah Klein, Director of the Gaming Commission’s Division of Horse Racing, commended the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in holding animal abusers accountable and delivering justice for the victimized horse. The conviction of Bourgault serves as a reminder that crimes against animals will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law to protect helpless animals from harm.
