Michael Vick has agreed to plead guilty. The NFL star agreed Monday to 'accept full responsibility' for his role in a dog fighting ring and plead guilty to federal conspiracy charges.
With three associates prepared to testify that he brutally executed dogs and racketeering gambling charges, Vick said through defense lawyer Billy Martin that he will plead guilty. Martin said in a statement, 'Michael wishes to apologize again to everyone who has been hurt by this matter.'
Although the maximum term is five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, defense attorneys would not divulge details of the plea agreement or how much time Vick can expect to serve. However, officials did say such a sentence would be more than what is usually recommended for first-time offenders, reflecting the government's attempt to show that animal abusers will receive more than a slap on the wrist. A hearing is scheduled for August 27.
Gene Upshaw, Executive Director of the NFL Players Association, said the NFL could not believe the criminal conduct to which Mr. Vick has pled guilty and the conduct cannot be condoned under any circumstances. He also stated the practice of dog fighting is offensive and completely unacceptable and hopes that Vick will learn from this experience.
The NFL further noted that the Atlanta Falcons quarterback's admission wasn't in line with what he told commissioner Roger Goodell shortly after being charged, but added the NFL totally condemns the conduct outlined in the charges, which is inconsistent with what Michael Vick previously told both the NFL and the Falcons.
The Falcons said they were troubled by news of the plea, but would withhold further comment.
Animal advocates are now hoping the NFL and others will take action to continue working against dog violence.
