Michael Vick, the starting QB for the Atlanta Falcons, has been indicted by a Federal Grand Jury on 3 counts of sponsoring a dogfighting operation. His court date is set for July 25th, the same day the Falcons open up training camp. If convicted, Vick could face up to six years in FEDERAL PRISON and fines of up to $350,000.
I have two points of view on this story. (1) I’m a Virginia Tech fan, and I really want to believe that a product of that team under the leadership of a great coach like Frank Beamer would not be a part of something so grisly and inhumane. I want to believe that while it was irresponsible of him to keep company with people of such low moral character, he wouldn’t be involved, however (2) I am also a dog owner and a human being, and I find it really difficult to swallow the idea that he had no idea what was transpiring at this house in Newport News, VA (Vick’s home town) that he owns. The indictment states that dogfighting operations began at this home during Vick’s rookie season of 2001, now is he telling us that in six years since he bought that house that he has never been to there and seen what goes on? With the numbers of dogs present, the living conditions and dead animal carcasses…..yeah, I don’t think I can buy that one.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy released a statement on behalf of the league today stating the following:
“We are disappointed that Michael Vick has put himself in a position where a federal grand jury has returned an indictment against him,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said. The activities alleged are cruel, degrading and illegal. Michael Vick’s guilt has not yet been proven, and we believe that all concerned should allow the legal process to determine the facts.”
Commissioner Roger Goodell has not issued any formal statements or decided on a course of action yet, but I can’t imagine that Vick won’t be suspended for the 2007-08 season or longer. Tank Johnson, Chris Henry, Pacman Jones, all three of them have something in common but not with Michael Vick……..none of them have been charged by FEDERAL PROSECUTORS, yet they’re upcoming seasons are essentially over. If Goodell doesn’t hand down the same decision or perhaps an even harsher one to Michael Vick, his credibility is shot. Prediction: Michael Vick should be suspended by the NFL indefinitely pending the outcome of the charges against him.
But, innocent until proven guilty.
Mike Duggan
AZCardsfan4life