“You need to apologize to the millions of young people who looked up to you,” U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson told Vick in court today.
"You were instrumental in promoting, funding and facilitating this cruel and inhumane sporting activity," he said.
Vick, 27, will serve time for both funding the Virginia based dog fighting operation and participating in the killing of 6 to 8 pit bulls. Reports show the “cruel and inhumane” treatment of dogs who, when they underperformed in the ring, were electrocuted, hanged, and drowned.
The former Falcon's star has been suspended without pay since he admitted to charges and turned himself in late Nov. He has lost his endorsement deals and it is unclear if he will be allowed back in the league after his sentence.
After denying any involvement, Vick later plead guilty in August, to charges that could have landed him up to five years in prison. For good behavior he could shave as much as three months off his over two year sentence.
"I'm willing to deal with the consequences and accept responsibility for my actions." Vick told the judge today.
"This was an efficient, professional, and thorough investigation that well exposed a seamy side of our society," The Canadian Press quoted U.S. Attorney Chuck Rosenberg. "I trust Mr. Vick learned important lessons and that his admission of guilt will speed his rehabilitation."
Posted December 10th, 2007 by Ian McGuffick
Michael Vick
I'm a dog lover and certainly can't condone the cruelty they endured under Vick and his cohorts but it seems that giving him a lengthy sentence is in itself cruel. First, they're hundreds of people or more involved in dogfighting so why single him out? They have to go after all the others too.
Secondly, these particular dogs are extremely dangerous. One often hears of an innocent child or adult being killed or traumatized by a pitbull. Ban these animals!!
Finally, why should Vick pay out $1,000,000 to take care of these animals. Put them to sleep!! They can't be any kind of pet now, when they weren't to being with. The money could be well spent to provide books, computers, food and shelter for low income children. The USA needs to stop being so extreme. They care more about animals than people!!