Horse owner under fire, hit with ban by N.Y. tracks

Posted April 09, 2009 11:00 pm

Associated Press

COXSACKIE, N.Y. -- The New York Racing Association has banned owner-breeder Ernie Paragallo from doing business at its tracks after authorities seized 177 horses at his Hudson Valley farm.

The 51-year-old Paragallo is the authorized agent for Paraneck Stable. NYRA (NYE'-ruh) officials say Paraneck won't be allowed to race at Aqueduct, Belmont or Saratoga until a new agent is appointed to run the stable.

NYRA has also banned Paragallo from the tracks' backstretch and paddock. Paraneck horses currently at Aqueduct will be allowed to remain in their barns.

On Wednesday, authorities seized the 177 malnourished horses from Paragallo's Center Brook farm in Greene County.

Paragallo hasn't been charged, but he's scheduled to meet with state police late Friday morning.

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