Top NY court rejects Dutrow's appeal of 10-year ban

• Trainer Rick Dutrow says his civil rights were violated during his proceedings over drug issues
• New York Court of Appeals says there was no substantial constitutional questions involved.
• Dutrow's lawyers will continue to seek appeals on other grounds

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - New York's top court has rejected Kentucky Derby-winning Thoroughbred trainer Rick Dutrow Jr.'s appeal to overturn his 10-year ban by state regulators because of what he claimed were substantial civil rights issues.

In asking the Court of Appeals to hear Dutrow's case, attorney Michael Koenig said it should decide whether the appearance of bias by Racing and Wagering Board Chairman John Sabini cost the trainer his right to a fair proceeding over drug violations.

He argued Sabini had a conflicting role as an officer of the Association of Racing Commissioners International, which advocated revoking his license.

Tuesday's dismissal says there is "no substantial constitutional question involved."

The ban has been stayed pending appeals.

Koenig says they will next seek permission to appeal for "a whole variety of reasons."