Banned Former Racehorse Owner Michael Thomas Poses Risk to Racing Community
A former racehorse owner and convicted rapist, Michael Thomas, has been banned from the British Horseracing Authority after attempting to find employment at a racing stable. Thomas, who hails from Hereford, was sentenced to 16 years in prison in 2013 for multiple charges, including rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, and other offenses. The judge ordered him to be on the sex offenders’ register for life.
Thomas, previously based in Abergavenny, had a small number of racehorses near Chepstow and was a regular attendee at races. During his trial, it was revealed that he had attacked multiple women, including his former girlfriend, whom he held captive in a shed before assaulting her with a hammer. The judge emphasized the danger Thomas posed to the public and sentenced him accordingly.
Upon his release from prison, Thomas attempted to work at a racing yard, which led to the BHA issuing him an indefinite exclusion order due to his behavior posing a risk to the racing community. Despite the terms of his prison release, Thomas was found on the premises of a racing yard, prompting the disciplinary action by the BHA.
In conclusion, Michael Thomas, a former racehorse owner with a criminal history, has been banned from the British Horseracing Authority for attempting to work at a racing stable, violating the terms of his prison release. His actions have been deemed a risk to the safety of those involved in the racing industry.