Horse Trainer’s License Suspended; Fraud Alleged
The license of Bob DeBonis, a New York trainer, was suspended by the State Racing and Wagering Board on Wednesday for what was termed fraud in connection with misrepresenting New York-bred horses he bred and raced.
According to Robert Feuerstein, counsel for the board, DeBonis’ license was to have run through 1991. He may apply for reinstatement thereafter, but Feuerstein said, “There being no precedent for this situation that I can now recall, it is hard for me to foresee the circumstances under which such a reinstatement would be granted.”
The board also said DeBonis “lacks the character and general fitness required of a licensee and that his continued participation in parimutuel racing will be inconsistent with the public interest, convenience and necessity and with the best interest of racing in general.”
DeBonis, 59, enjoyed his best year in 1981 when his horses earned more than $2 million.
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