Nicholas DeVita suspended indefinitely pending investigation

The United States Trotting Association (USTA) has announced the indefinite suspension of New York harness racing trainer Nicholas F. DeVita following alleged violations of its membership rules.

DeVita, 40, of Middletown, NY, was suspended effective February 24, 2026. The action, issued on February 23, relates to alleged breaches of USTA Rule 26.16 (failure to submit information) and USTA Article §1.04(a)(7), which covers failure to furnish information requested to supplement a membership application.

According to the USTA bulletin, DeVita did not provide records and information requested by the Standardbred Racing Investigative Fund (SRIF), which was working in collaboration with the USTA as part of an investigation into suspected violations of the association’s Rules and Bylaws.

Membership Action and Restrictions

As a result of the action, DeVita is classified as a “person not in good standing” under USTA Rule 4.130. This designation triggers restrictions affecting both him and any horses or USTA members associated with him under Rules 20.15, 20.17, 22.05, 22.06, and 26.12.

The USTA also indicated that it will closely scrutinize any attempted transfers of ownership interests in registered Standardbred horses owned by DeVita. The association reserves the right to decline recognition of any such transfer if it does not comply with USTA Rules and Bylaws.

Members have been advised to consult with USTA officials before engaging in transactions or business activities involving registered Standardbreds connected to DeVita to ensure compliance.

Suspension Stayed

The status of the suspension as of February 24, 2026 is listed as “Stayed,” meaning the enforcement of the suspension is temporarily on hold pending further proceedings or review.

Further updates are expected as the matter progresses through the USTA’s investigative and disciplinary processes.

Read this weeks Fines and Suspensions from the USTA

From Harnesslink Media