GOSHEN, N.Y. — A 27-year-old Canadian national has been sentenced to state prison for the brutal killing of a racehorse at a training facility in Orange County, New York. The case, which shocked the local community and drew widespread condemnation from animal rights advocates, reached a conclusion on Monday, July 7, in Orange County Court.
Brutal Attack at Pine Bush Training Facility
Frederick Bourgault, who was employed at the Pine Bush Training Facility in the Town of Crawford, received a sentence of two to six years in state prison after being convicted of multiple charges related to the beating death of a racehorse named “Finish Line.” The horse, estimated to be worth at least $5,000, suffered fatal injuries after Bourgault struck it with a hard object, causing a linear depressed skull fracture. The injuries were so severe that the animal had to be euthanized.
Bourgault was found guilty of criminal mischief, as well as violating New York’s Agriculture and Markets Law, which prohibits the willful and unjustified injury or destruction of certain domestic animals, including racehorses.
In addition to the prison sentence, he was ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution for the loss of the horse.
Detailed Investigation Uncovers Abuse
The investigation into Finish Line’s death was a collaborative effort involving the New York State Police, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, and the New York State Gaming Commission. Authorities went as far as having the horse’s remains exhumed to conduct a forensic examination at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. The experts confirmed the cause of death, providing crucial evidence that led to Bourgault’s conviction.
Animal Abuse Registry Requirement
During sentencing, prosecutors informed Bourgault of his obligation under “Rocky’s Law”, a local Orange County ordinance named after another animal abuse case. The law requires all convicted animal abusers to register with the county’s Animal Abuse Registry within five days of their release from custody. The registry is maintained by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and is aimed at preventing individuals with a history of cruelty from gaining access to animals again.
Additional Assault Charge Pending Sentencing
Bourgault is also facing sentencing in a separate criminal case. On June 25, 2025, he pleaded guilty to attempted assault after trying to cause physical injury to a woman who was using her cellphone. Details surrounding the incident have not been fully disclosed, but he is expected to be sentenced for that charge on October 2.
Community Reaction and Broader Implications
The killing of Finish Line has ignited strong reactions from both the horse racing community and animal welfare groups, who see the case as a disturbing example of the need for stronger protections for animals in racing and training environments.
Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler praised the outcome, stating that animal cruelty — especially in professional settings — will not be tolerated. He emphasized that the legal system must hold individuals fully accountable for acts of violence against defenseless animals.
The case is a stark reminder of the importance of continued vigilance and regulation in the horse racing industry, and it highlights the growing role of local laws like Rocky’s Law in ensuring long-term accountability.
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