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The ASPCA Applauds Vick's Strong Sentence

The ASPCA applauds the strong and appropriate sentence received on Monday, December 10, by NFL quarterback Michael Vick. Vick, who pleaded guilty in August to federal charges in connection with a dogfighting operation on his property in Virginia, appeared before Judge Henry Hudson in Richmond, VA, and was sentenced to 23 months in federal prison, effective immediately. This is at the higher end of the federal sentencing guidelines of 18 to 24 months and is to be followed by a three-year probation period, during which time Vick is forbidden to own or have any contact with dogs other than supporting humane organizations.

"This is a significant moment in the history of animal cruelty prosecution," says Ed Sayres, ASPCA President & CEO. "It sends a clear message to criminals everywhere-this kind of barbaric cruelty to animals will not be tolerated."

Vick will serve 23 months minus the time he has already served since surrendering himself early. Two of his codefendants, Purnell Peace and Quanis Phillips, were sentenced to 18 and 21 months respectively, on November 30. The fourth codefendant, Tony Taylor, will be sentenced today, December 14.

The ASPCA is proud to have assisted federal investigators in many aspects of the case, such as participating in the excavation of graves and examination of remains, leading a team of animal behavior experts in evaluating the dogs seized from Vick's Virginia property and making recommendations to the United States Department of Agriculture and U.S. Attorney's office regarding the disposition of the dogs. "This case was investigated and prosecuted in a remarkably swift, thorough and collaborative fashion, and we have been honored to assist," says Sayres. "It gives us some comfort that the animals who suffered did not do so in vain."

Due to the sensitive nature of the ongoing criminal process, further details cannot be made available at this time. However, to keep abreast of ongoing developments in the Michael Vick case, please visit the ASPCA Anti-Cruelty Resource Center.