Ernie Paragallo, a prominent New York Thoroughbred breeder and trainer has been convicted of mistreating dozens of horses. Paragallo was convicted March 10 of 33 of 34 misdemeanor animal cruelty counts in a non-jury trial.

The 52-year-old Long Island resident was charged after authorities raided his 500-acre farm in Coxsackie in April and seized 177 malnourished horses.

Paragallo could face up to two years in jail and $35,000 in fines. His lawyer says he’ll appeal the convictions announced by a judge March 10. The owner/breeder testified the week of March 1 that he didn’t know the horses weren’t being fed enough.

"Racehorses–whether they are in training, retired from racing, or in active competition at our tracks–must be properly cared for in accordance with the laws of the State of New York," said John Sabini, chairman of the New York Racing and Wagering Board and the state’s Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund, in a statement. "The verdict issued today by Greene County Judge George Pulver Jr. sends a message that serious consequences await those who fail to provide proper care and sustenance to horses