Just say "references available upon request" and try to find other people you've done programming projects with who would be comfortable being a reference. Foc

Just say "references available upon request" and try to find other people you've done programming projects with who would be comfortable being a reference. Focus on what you want out of a new position, and what you could bring to the company. There's no need to mention anything about your previous company except the successes you've had there (projects, assignments, etc).