Robideaux replaces Alfortish as chairman of Louisiana HBPA

Trainer Larry Robideaux Jr. has been installed as chairman of the Louisiana Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association after Sean Alfortish indicated to board members his intent to resign from his seat, a representative of the organization said on Wednesday.

Robideaux confirmed Wednesday that he is now chairman of the Louisiana HBPA. He said the new vice chairman is owner Carrol Castille.

Robideaux had been vice chairman of the Louisiana HBPA when Alfortish served as its chairman.

The board on Monday asked Alfortish to resign after the Nov. 18 release of a 29-count indictment against him and the organization’s executive director, Mona Romero, that alleges conspiracy to commit mail fraud. The case dates back to a Louisiana HBPA election in 2008.

Alfortish and Romero, who was relieved of her duties by the board, are scheduled to be arraigned on Dec. 2. Ed Fenasci, secretary-treasurer for the Louisiana HBPA, is currently handling the duties of executive director, a representative of the group said on Wednesday.

A new Louisiana HBPA election is scheduled for March.

Robideaux has trained since 1960 and has served for 20 years on the board of the Louisiana HBPA.

The indictment returned by a federal grand jury alleges that Alfortish and Romero conspired with others to “rig the outcome,” of the 2008 election, according to a release issued by U.S. Attorney Jim Letten. The indictment also alleges health care fraud concerning payments out of the Louisiana Horsemen’s Medical Benefit Trust, and wire fraud tied to the distribution of relief funds after Hurricane Katrina.