Thoroughbred trainer Rick Dutrow Jr. is expected to learn the fate of his career next week when regulators in New York rule whether his alleged use of drugs in racehorses is serious enough to lead them to permanently revoke his license in the state.

The long-awaited decision is likely Oct. 12 at a meeting of the state Racing and Wagering Board.

"It is expected that the matter of Mr. Dutrow will come before the board at its October 12 meeting," confirmed agency spokesman Lee Park. He declined further comment.

After months of lawyers on both sides trading legal papers, the board’s hearing officer in the case, Clemente Parente, is set to present his findings and disciplinary recommendations to racing regulators during the meeting. The board can adopt, reject, or even strengthen any recommendations for punishment Parente might make