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Former NASCAR Cup Series director Jay Fabian pleads guilty to animal cruelty, receives sentence

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Former NASCAR Cup Series director Jay Fabian pled guilty to three misdemeanor cruelty to animals charges, per Bob Pockrass of Fox Sports. He is sentenced to 90 days in jail, which is suspended as long as he clears five years probation. Additionally, Fabian can’t own dogs.

Fabian was originally charged in 2021 with two felonies and one misdemeanor. He was the Cup Series director at the time but was forced to step away. After learning the allegations against Fabian, NASCAR issued a statement.

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“NASCAR takes the situation seriously and will continue to gather information as it becomes available,” the sanctioning body said, per Racer. “Jay Fabian will step back from his role until this matter is resolved. NASCAR will have no further comment.”

In the 2021 documents (per Sports Illustrated), the incident occurred on July 21 when Fabian “did, intentionally and with malice, deprive his dog, Jasper, of all necessary sustenance in which to live, causing the animal to suffer unjustifiable pain, suffering, and death in a torturous and cruel manner.”

The arrest warrant stated that Fabian “did cause torment and unnecessary suffering (extreme dehydration and starvation almost to the point of death) of his dog, Aubrey, by the malicious and cruel omission of care and neglect.”

Jay Fabian began his NASCAR Cup Series director role in 2019

Fabian was hired as NASCAR’s Cup Series director in January 2019. Before accepting the role, Fabian was the managing director of technical integration for NASCAR.

“This is a fast-paced sport that is constantly evolving, and I’m thankful for this opportunity and eager to take on the challenge,” Fabian said at the time. “Racing has been my passion for as long as I can remember. There is growing anticipation for the 2019 season, and I’m looking forward to being a part of an outstanding team that will help build our sport.”

“With his vast experience across the industry, Jay Fabian is uniquely suited for this position,” Steve O’Donnell, then-NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer (now NASCAR COO) said. “Jay’s steady leadership and depth of knowledge are tremendous assets that will greatly benefit the series and all of NASCAR.”