NFL Quarterback Investigated for Alleged Dog Fighting

The Humane Society of the United States today released a statement in reaction to the news that Michael Vick, quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, is being investigated for alleged animal neglect and possible dog fighting connections.

Yesterday, a search warrant was issued for a property owned by Vick, in Surry County, Virginia. According to reports, law enforcement authorities discovered dogs in a state of apparent neglect and malnourishment. The Virginia Animal Fighting Taskforce was on the scene. Officers discovered up to 70 dogs, many with wounds and scars believed to be from dog fighting, according to sources.

"The Humane Society of the United States has heard troubling reports for some time that Michael Vick has been involved in organized dog fighting, and we fear that this investigation may validate that very disturbing allegation," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. "We urge law enforcement to aggressively investigate this matter, and we further believe that anyone who harbors dogs for the purpose of fighting, deserves to be fully prosecuted their crimes. Dog fighting is a barbaric activity that causes immense animal suffering and fosters violence in our communities.  Our nation should have a zero tolerance policy for any form of staged animal fighting."

HSUS Facts:

• Other sports figures have been arrested for dog fighting including NBA's Qyntel Woods, and the NFL's LeShon Johnson.
• Boxer Roy Jones Jr. is a known cockfighter.
• There are reports of animal fighting crimes nearly every week in the United States. In March alone, raids in Ohio and California yielded dozens of arrests, the seizure of 64 dogs, 300 birds, $30,000 dollars in illegal gambling proceeds, guns and an explosive device. 
• Dog fighting is illegal in all 50 states. Cockfighting is illegal in 49 states, with Governor Bill Richardson signing a bill to ban cockfighting in New Mexico last month.  Only Louisiana allows legal cockfighting.

While Vick said he's not involved in dog fighting, a website shed light on his apparent interest in breeding through a business known as "Mike Vick K-9 Kennels."

The site, VicksK9Kennels.com, said Vick specializes in breeding registered puppies ranging from rare pit bull terriers to "the highly intelligent and powerful Presa Canario." It also contains a disclaimer that none of its dogs were used for fighting.

Comments

[Vesta]

Throw him in jail

[Judy]

National sports figures are supposed to be held to higher standards. I believe because of this and the ridiculously high salaries they make, their punishments, if convicted, should be exponentially larger. For example, if the fine for dog fighting for a "normal" person is $1,000, and 2 years in jail; then the fine for M. Vick should be $500,000 and 2 years in jail. Most likely, 2 years out of the NFL spotlight, and without playing the game and attending pre-season training would be a career-ending move. Too bad.!! Make an example of him if he really is guilty.

[Ruth]

Judy's right!

[Tressy]

Anyone playing professional sports that breaks the law and is found guilty should be thrown off the team. Our children look up to these people!

[Nancy AKA BostonTerrierMommyof10]

Just think, all the sports fanatics fund his cruel pleasure! I have never been a sports fan to begin with but they are paid waaayyyy too much. Kick him out of pro sports and let him work like the common man to support his bad habits!!

[Dog]

Agree - throw him in jail

[Roxie]

My opinion on Vick right now (7/27/07), is very low (Skunks smell better)...as a matter of fact- never heard the name till all this happened.
As for the animals that are alive now- Vick should be MADE to pay for each animal's care (food, vet bills, meds., etc) until they pass away (naturally!).
Big deal if he goes to jail, pays fines, or whatever...but if every month money is taken from him to pay for the dogs, he will be constantly reminded of what horrible men that he & his 'friends' are.
Take Care.

[Nikki Jo Lucero]

RIGHT! These figures are supposedly looked highly upon by our kids and if kids will beg borrow and steal for sports shoes these people endorse then you know teen angers will copy the fighting. BOYCOTT ANY TEAM THAT ALLOWS THIS STUFF and make their PUNISHMENTS and FINES BIGGER...
KNOCK THEM OFF TEAMS FOR GOOD!