In 2002 Dorperheide and Arenberg bought Amaretto d'Arco for 17,000 euros. The horse was then stabled and trained at the Arenberg Stud in Malle and on August 18, 2008 Philippaerts acquired knowledge of the fact the horse had been sold to the American breeding Spy Coast Farm without his consent.
"Patrick S. told Philippaerts he had received 500,000 euros for Amaretto d'Arco and promised my client half. Later it turned out that the Americans had paid 1.45 million euros, " said attorney John Maes on behalf of Philippaerts and his stud farm in the court of Antwerp.
Stud Arenberg asked for acquittal. "The crucial question is: who owned the horse? Who is allowed to sell it? I think those who had it in his possession. It was stabled with my clients for years. Philippaerts cannot prove ownership. Therefore the alleged crimes my client has committed can also not be proved, " said Axel De Schampheleire in defence for Arenberg Stud.
For now court is adjourned, the verdict will be on the 14th of November.