Talk of the Town

By One

December 10, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

MY REACTION IS THAT THE AJC OUGHT TO GET A LIFE, FOCUS ON MUCH MORE IMPORTANT ISSUES, AND STOP RACE-BAITING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Joey

December 10, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

I hope Vick comes out a changed man. If so, I also hope some team gives him a chance to play again.

By pt-78

December 10, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

It sucks to be him. Maybe he shouldn’t have done it! GO FALCONS!

By me

December 10, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

not long enough???? first

By Lex Luthor

December 10, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

That Judge saw right through Vick’s fabricated remorse. 23 Months ought to do him just fine. When he gets out Switzer will have a job waiting.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Thank God this nonsense is finally over. Now if the Falcons can just get rid of his salary and spend it on some talent, we can all forget the huge mistake that was Michael “Ookie” Vick.

By Alan

December 10, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

I think the sentence is fair and hopefully Vick will learn from the expereince. The fact is he thought he was above the law and wasn’t. This should be a clear lession for others who because of their cerlebrity, money, or power that follow a simlar path.

By Jeff

December 10, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

This thug deserved far more than that. He has been getting off because of his “super stardom” for far too long. He has single handidly brought a professional sports franchise to its knees. Well, he and Arthur Blank.

By beaz

December 10, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Well, what he did was wrong, but 23 months? For fighting dogs? Wow, that is harsh.

By DD-Debra

December 10, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

He was the leader. Can you expect any less?

By Roswell Ed

December 10, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

Regardless of what one believes there are two things that are certain.

and

I know a lot of people will be typing about it’s “just a dog.”

That’s fine if YOU believe that but you still have to refer to RULE NUMBER TWO above.

I think it’s horrible that people are in jail for weed offenses but that doesn’t change the fact that it’s illegal.

It is what it is and now Vick had to pay for his crimes.

What a waste.

What a bum.

By Ameer

December 10, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

Please stop reacting to this as a racial issue. It only makes the city look as bad as the nation wants us to look.

By Falcons Fan

December 10, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

23 months seems excessive for dog-fighting. His life has already been ruined. I’m guessing the marijuana test helped to lengthen the sentence. Americans need to realize that marijuana is just as much a drug as tobacco and alcohol(safer than both). It should not be illegal and it should not have affected Vick’s sentencing.

By Hobbs

December 10, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Vick got caught smoking pot while waiting for his sentence. I feel no remorse for him and he deserves all 23 months.

My sympathy goes to the Falcons organization.

By Peri, Lithonia

December 10, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Mike Vick did a reprehensible thing with his dogfighting venture. Terrible. Period. But we all make mistakes, do we not? I think the sentence was unduly harsh, but my hope is that once he serves it out, people will give him a second chance and allow him to get on with his life.

I’m glad it’s over.

By OJ Simpson

December 10, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Im just glad the AJC and Nacy Grace are talking about this instead of talking about me.

HA HA!

Hey Mike, see ya in hell

your pal, the juice

By Free Mike Vick

December 10, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

Child Molesters, Rapist, and Murderers have received lesser sentences. Screw PETA! Twelve months is more than fair, two years is outrageous!

By change in the air

December 10, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

He will pay for what he did and no other man has paid as much as vick for some dogs plus 50 million in dollar+ and time but after he pays Me and many other want vick back in Atlanta Falcon as QB and I am a season ticket holder. I forgive vick blank you need to for give him to look at the seat at the dome and look at the standing 3-9 . you will alway be a falcon! If you let him come back blank you will get paid and win more game bank on it!

By Adrian

December 10, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

No matter what you think about dogfighting, 23 months is incredibly harsh for a first offense.

By ak4771

December 10, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

I dont give a damn!!! Thats what i think….Bring on Shockley!!! And the hell with Terrance Moore!!!

Have a nice day

By Lost in Amazement

December 10, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

LET ME GET THIS STRAIGHT

DANNY HEATLEY CAUSED THE DEATH OF A HUMAN BEING AND RECEIVES PROBATION

VICK KILLED DOGS AND RECEIVED 23 MONTHS IN JAIL

AND PEOPLE THINK THIS IS LOGICAL?

By JAG

December 10, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

23 Months. That is ashame. There are people who have done worse than this who have recieved less time. I would go down the list but it would be a waist. I am not a dog lover nor am I a dog hater but it is ashame when I can go to the gas station with a gun, rob the store and get less time than he did because it would be my first offense.

By James Dial

December 10, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

I support the decision. He went far beyond just fighting dogs…hanging them, drowning them, etc. Obviously a very evil side. Hopefully he will learn from it and move on. I am sure people will twist it to sound like he was racially targeted, i.e. ESPN.

By Gene

December 10, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

It appears that Vick will be back where he started in two years with limited sources of revenue. I suppose that he can draw some kind of NFL retirement, but it won’t be much. It is one of the great tragedies that a person with so much talent would destroy himself over something as stupid and unnecessary as dogfighting. He brought his affinity of dogfighting to the Falcons, but I still blame Arthur Blank and Jim Mora for facilitating Vick’s bad and illegal behavior by fixing everything from parking tickets to dope-filled water bottles. Of course, Blank is paying for his role in Vick’s demise and will continue to pay for some time. Everyone from the commissioner, to college presidents and coaches need to teach athletes like Vick that they are not entitled and can be held accountable for their actions. Ultimately, it was the public that brought Vick down, and util the public acts as vigorously against criminal referees in the NBA, thugs like Pacman Jones and Tank Johnson, and juicers like Barry Bonds, we will have more of the same.

By Roger G.

December 10, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Looks like the only NFL Mike will be playing in is the National Felon League.

Welcome to Thunderdome!

By BDog

December 10, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

Maybe our young,up and coming athletes will learn from vick’s situation. Get your life in order when you move on to this level….

By The Truth

December 10, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

This is so insane and stupid. People do this all day long and not going to stop. Black men are more likely to receive tougher sentencing than any race. One last point all those who are against dog fighting and Vick, I hope you don’t eat meat if you do you are contradicting yourself. Haters!!!!!!!

By Rok

December 10, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

Is there anyone out there who has never done anything wrong in their lives? He is getting his punishment, but some of you think you are holier than thou. I would love to see what skeletons you have in your closet. As a 40 year Falcon fan and a human being, this is a sad day for all, including Mike and his family. Heaven help us all.

By TW

December 10, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Well it just proves how messed up this country is when you can get more time and be crucified for killing a vicious dog, but if you are a wife beater, child molester, or murderer, you can get off.

By Carla

December 10, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

I think the sentence was bit much. The 12-18 months proposed by the prosecution was more than enough. I’ve seen people who’ve killed other human beings get less time.

Hopefully he’ll come out a different man and resume his career in 2010. I’m sure some team will give him a chance to prove himself. This is a country of second chances.

By GAIL BLAKEMORE

December 10, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

DO YOU REALLY KNOW THE WHAT A THUG IS?

By Sue

December 10, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

I’m sorry, but 23 months isn’t long enough. He should get the full 5 years and I don’t care if he ever plays football again. Maybe if he gets a real job in the real world he might be able to start over again. But he is no role model that I would want for any kids to look up to.

By Aundrey

December 10, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Alan,

It’s a shame, all of the money in world can’t buy an ounce of common sense. What was he thinking?

By AVID AJCER

December 10, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

I feel sorry for Vick, he received the high end of the sentencing. Hopefully Virginia will not try to make this a high profile case and let it go. I know child molesters and rapists who received less punishmant than this MAN! Vick behave and keep your head up, you will play football again.

By steve brown

December 10, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Now that he has admitted to hanging a dog, smoking pot 1 day prior to the court testing him, etc. we all should stop and think about all the other incidents he has been involved in and used our adoration of his football skills to get away with telling us (the fans)lies. After seeing the 60 minutes piece on LT and his character let alone his skills, whoever made the trade so that we could draft Vick ahead of LT just didn’t do any due diligence. Vick is getting what he earned.

By larry

December 10, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

I dont care

By Nancy, Charlote, NC

December 10, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

As a former Atlanta resident and a person who loves animals and also loves sports, I have an opinion. I feel that dog fighting is barbaric and tragic. I hope that all of this publicity will educate people about this cruel, sickening blood festival. I hope justice has been served today.

By ed

December 10, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

23 months might be easy compared to what the state charges could bring that Virgina has against him. 5 years i believe for those charges. should be interesting to see how that plays out. if he gets nailed there we wont ever see mr. vick on a football field again.

By Lynda

December 10, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

Both Vick brothers are examples of an incredible waste of talent. They were given more opportunity than they earned or deserved and only squandered it. They are far from being victims. What makes this story even more sensational is that they are actually being held accountable for their actions. No wonder people are having such a hard time digesting it - it rarely happens in any walk of life. Wouldn’t it be nice to think accountability is a new trend. Don’t hold your breath.

By CDS

December 10, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Too bad, so sad. The judge didn’t buy all that crap you supporters were talking about him making a mistake. A mistake doesn’t last 5 years. Someone who makes a mistake doesn’t try to lie about it, and make another mistake by failing a drug test.

I don’t feel sorry for him one bit. Do the crime, then you gotta do the time. He let every Falcons fan down, and they should be ashamed for his actions. He does not care about you, he is selfish and getting what he deserves.

By Harold

December 10, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Jeff…..what’s a thug? Go ahead and say what you really mean and stop hiding behind your bigotry.

By FalconFan60

December 10, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

He’s lucky to be getting off with just 23 months. Let’s not forget thet he financed this and was a big player in dogfighting. As for the AJC “race baiting” I believe the blacks responding to this have been the ones that keep bringing up race. The issue is simple, he committed a crime, he got caught, and now he has to pay. As far as him smoking pot that just shows his level of maturity. That is illigal and he should know better. I hope he enjoys his stay at the Federal pen and playing football with a real bunch of criminals.

By Brock

December 10, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

OK, let’s hear from all the idiots now. All the blind supporters of this fool who need to speak out about how it’s because he’s black and all the race card nonsense. Let’s hear from the people(beaz) saying it’s “just dogs” and he made a mistake, forgetting the whole time he ADMITTED TO COMMITTING A FELONY!!!

Vick, Serve your time, read a book and learn something.

By spell checker

December 10, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

JAG

First off…if you went down the list of people who have done worse things it would not be a WAIST, a waist is where you should wear your pants.

It would be a WASTE, as in a waste of time cause no one is going to listen to you.

By K.

December 10, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

Only in America will a person be sentenced to Federal Prison for dog fighting. In the meantime, the Vice President can shoot someone, a Republican Cabinet Member can “out” an Undercover CIA agent, ministers can beat their wives and the president can kill thousands of US troops and barely get mentioned on the news. Only in America, Only in America.

By dodobrown

December 10, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

This is ridiculous..and clearly race plays a part..White folks love some damn dogs more than they do brothers…Lets face it..Dogs are the modern day slaves!!! They replaced us as the lovable do whatever loyal servants and bed warmers they once had..This is ridiculous. In theory and in legal terms dogs are seen as property and one has the right to do whatever they want with there own property so long as it does not effect others. If I went out and bought a $100,000 car and decided to drive it into a wall, that is my loss. Same for those frign dogs. If he choosed to pay thousands for them, and waste that away by letting them do what they are prown, grown, and bread to do..SO BE IT…

Black folks wake up…they taking us down one by one!! WAKE UP!! RIP PIMP C… MR. VICK keep your head up..there are better days in front of you…

By whateva

December 10, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

23 months is harsh, I have visited the The Georgia Department of Corrections Website and there are people who are in prison for aggravated child sexual battery that received less time. Dogs are more important that a child’s state of mind. I love MY dog, but the sentencing is extreme for dog fighting. I will say this…most the people who are against Vick regardless of color…..have never brought a Falcon ticket in their life and don’t plam on buying any. Michael Vick continue to keep your head up….this is a hurdle I know you will jump……regardless of what uniform you put on in 2010….I am a fan for life.

By Mark W

December 10, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

One less VT thug on the Falcons….who is next…I liked Michael Vick, great talent, but when are the ‘brothers’ going to learn…you bring your neighborhood with you, look what will happen…he will never play in the NFL again, period, case closed

By chipdip

December 10, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

AWESOME….THINK I’LL DRINK UP AND BE SOMEBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!go browns!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By stephanie j.

December 10, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

it wasn’t long enough…he is a sick person and deserves what ever he gets and then some. people who hurt animals and kids are scum.

By Aman

December 10, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Vick did what he wanted to do, not what he thought was right and he is getting just punishment. Unfortunately, the sides are divided down racial line, however, I think that 23 months might be what he needs to realized he actions were wrong and he could once again be a star and a role model. By the way, I thought there was a screening process here until I read the post that some ignorant person believes pot is safer than alcohol and tobacco. Get a life.

By What is right?

December 10, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

I know a man who is a self proclaimed dog lover, a deacon in his church and well loved in his neighborhood. He has had a series of pets that “just didn’t work out” and took them out and shot them with a rifle. These animals included a very sweet, but neglected in a pen labrador retriever and several cats. I am trying to understand how this man is different than Michael Vick. I was told by his wife that the issue that caused trouble for Vick was all the gambling and money. But I think the most disturbing issue is the animal abuse! This is a very wealthy couple who could easy afford euthanasia and they lie to the kids about the missing pets. Any comments?

By Dirty

December 10, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

**I am sick of it. This whole country is going down due to the serious race issue that some refuse to acknowledge. Screw Vick, the idiot should be punished for what he’s done. But I can’t help but notice the obvious disdain for even an apology give by an African-American this country has.

I saw where a preacher in Alpharetta beat his wife and resigned yesterday. The angle on the story on channel 2 was his church members crying over how great of a man he was and how apolgetic he is. No one questions his sincerity. He even obstructed justice in the matter. As a matter of fact, checkout the angle in the AJC, a “fight with his wife”.

Now, an impartial person who saw Vick should see that guy was hurting and obviously sorry. But he will never be able to satisfy some. I have no confidence in our race situation. Many African-Americans rest blindly on claiming racism and most whites are down right in denial of the racial undertones most things in America hold.**

By PARISIAN LADY

December 10, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

I AM DOG LOVER,BUT I BELIEVE THAT 23 MONTHS IS TOO LONG. THERE ARE THOSE WHO HAVE GOTTEN LESS TIME FOR ABUSING A CHILD OR RAPE. IT LOOKS LIKE TO ME THAT A DOG IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN A CHILD OR IS IT THAT IT WAS MICHAEL VICK WHO IS IN THE CENTER OF THE CONTROVERSY.

By Jason

December 10, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

I think this was fair. The Danny Heatly thing angered me yes. I dont see how he got away with it but thats the lovely justice system in our great country. Back to the Vick stuff, he got what he deserved. He was the RING LEADER, cant forget that people. He organized the stuff and funded it because of his position. Then thinking he was who he was he could get away with it and got cought. Weed is ILLEGAL no matter how you view it. Vick got what he deserved. Its a shame about loosing the endorsements and whatnot but its his own fault. Its sad but I feel no remorse for him. He did it to himself. I think he should possibly get another shot in the NFL but I dont want him in Atlanta as much as we need him.

By haha

December 10, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

23 months for fighting dogs? Nut you can get 1 day in jail for drunk driving? What he did was wrong no doubt but lets put it in persepctive animals are slaughtered everyday for sport cloths food etc.. and nobody cares. Meanwhile if u watch to catch a predator on dateline those guys get probation for trying to molest little kids. this world is completly upside down. Nike can distance them selves from vick but what about all the animals they slaughter to make his shoes? What about the animals served at the stadium. There throwin a pigs skin around for crying out loud this just makes no sense!`

By THE TRUTH

December 10, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Vick brought this on himself, action/reaction. He will be vilafied the rest of his life. Move on, its a sad day for EVERYONE!

By vronca

December 10, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

23 months TOO MUCH TIME. he is getting more time than anyone else in the world for the same crime. Yes, child molesters, rapists even murderers has gotten less time. Why run him into the ground he had no criminal history before this. My heart goes out to him. Forget the falcons, Vick made the falcons how would the falcons get a Monday night football showing or a thanksgiving showing. I hope the falcon continue to lose, they used him now they want their money back.

By April

December 10, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

So Paris Hilton and her crew drive drunk and on drugs over and over and get 1 day in jail when they can kill HUMANS I guess someone has to actually die before they take their case seriously.

But Vick gets 23 months in jail? Rapist, wife beaters get less time! For first offense and dog fighting seems harsh. They should have fined him out they ying yang and used that money for good causes like the humane society!

By dont forget this!!!

December 10, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Vick and three co-defendants still face trial on state dogfighting charges in Virginia. They are accused of torturing and killing dogs and promoting dogfights — all felonies that carry five-year maximum sentences.

By ebdawg

December 10, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Good point Lost…. What Vick did was terrible. Period !! But the punishment does not fit the crime. Society would be better served by Vick spending the next two or three years serving the Humane Society as his community service. He has name recognition and that could have been used to make a difference. Instead he’s locked away for two years. Michael Vick should pay for what he has done… but payment could have been much more beneficial to society.

By Aman

December 10, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

TW, what planet are you living on? Vick killed a vicious dog? He didn’t just kill A vicious dog, he killed many. Also, why do you think pit bulls are vicious? Maybe because people like Vick make them mean to fight and slaughter them when they aren’t vicious? You do realize that the dogs that were electrocuted, strangled, hung, and shot were the ones that weren’t vicious don’t you?

By ms cook74

December 10, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Come on…DOG FIGHTING? You get 23 months…….what about the people who hunt DEER/RABBITS and all of the “other” animals? Seem as if “the good ol’ south/good ‘ol boys are just trying to make an example. I believe in the end “MICHAEL VICK” will come out on top….Just look at the FALCONS, they can’t give tickets away to a game……they will reap what they sow…DIRT URDS!!!!!!!!

By T.Hadley

December 10, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Although animal cruelty is wrong, I feel that this is good old fashion lynching. How is it that pedophiles and child rapist can walk the streets and be allowed to live near our kids but Vick is being railroaded. How much time did the Thrashers player get for killing his friend while drunk driving? Clearly our priorities are off.

By Nate

December 10, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

@James Dial….DANNY HEATLEY CAUSED THE DEATH OF A HUMAN BEING BECAUSE HE WAS DRUNK AND RECEIVES PROBATION…SCOOTER LIBBY…the list goes on James….oh and Danny Heatley’s playing for another team right now…..how else does this look…please explain!!!!

By BeedyJ

December 10, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

He will be back in the NFL…bank on it people. The Falcons are on Monday Night Football because of the excitement Mike brought to his fans and the Dome was filled for the same reason. Money talks in these U. S. of A. and plenty folks have made a tons in his behalf. They aren’t about to keep loosing that kind of money. Plz believe that!!!!

By Marion Griffin

December 10, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

I think his sentence is a gross miscarriage of justice. PETA NEVER says a thing about people being killed by dogs, and yet Michael is sentenced more harsely than a murderer or rapist.He is being punished to satisfy a group of loud protesters who care nothing about human lives.

By Dirty

December 10, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

HOW RACIST WE ARE

Vick killed dogs and these fools group him with OJ Simpson Well they are both black.

By Stinky Pete

December 10, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

All I know is I would love to see real life documentory version of “The Longest Yard” with Vick coaching and playing football against the racist white guards! Who is with me??

By Andy K

December 10, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

One word: JUSTICE. He deserves to serve every minute

By terrence

December 10, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Our system of law and goverernance is not objective but subjective. There is no standard punishment for crimes. I personally know of people that have been charged with aggrevated assault with a deadly weapon and got less time.

By Elizabeth

December 10, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Not harsh enough. This street thug made it big and thought he was untouchable because “everybody loves Vick no matter what I do” he said. Being an avid animal lover, we need to get beyond this situation. I only wished he could feel what the dogs were feeling when he killed them for poor PERFORMANCE!! HMMM I don’t recall Vick always winning!

By terrence

December 10, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Our system of law and goverernance is not objective but subjective. There is no standard punishment for crimes. I personally know of people that have been charged with aggrevated assault with a deadly weapon and got less time.

By FloweryBranchDawg

December 10, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

I see some of these bloggers do not look at the “Big Picture”, here. Vick did more than handled the “Dog fighting” side. He abused and killed dogs. Vick took these dogs across state lines to fight, Vick bank rolled this whole operation. He does deserve 23 months, if not more.(He will probably serve maybe half of that)The guy hung around the wrong crowd. When he gets out, he better find some new friends who are not part of the “Gangsta” mentallity.

By Short Term Memory

December 10, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

If America’s judiciary system was fair to blacks, people wouldn’t think this was racially charged sentence. Unfortunately the judiciary system thinks every black male is born a criminal and we’d be better off behind bars instead of with our families

By FalconFan60

December 10, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

Anyone that calls people “haters” because their opinion isn’t popular is just plain stupid. And just because we don’t approve of dogfighting but eat meat doesn’t make us hypocrites. As for the “black men receive tougher sentences” maybe that’s because blacks commit the most crime.

By someone please help me

December 10, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

Everyone keeps talking about how murderers got off lighter than Vick.

Can someone please provide me with a specific example (OTHER THAN OJ) where a murderer got less than 23 months.

operators are standing by.

By brock

December 10, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

Truth, are you serious. If I eat meat I’m contradicting my beliefs? Uh, I don’t remember ever eating dog. I don’t know about you so whatever you have to tell yourself I guess is ok. And the last time I checked killing a deer is not illegal. Gambling a

By David Letterman

December 10, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

TOP 5 COMMENTS BY STUPID PEOPLE

By JohnFH

December 10, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

In Atlanta, we’ve been through this before with the Gold Club trial, this time its Michael Vick and Barry Bonds in Frisco. Forget race, forget sports, its all about the big picture…the FED’s and their priorities! When the next terrorist incident in America hits home, and its coming for sure now, no one should cry and complain about where was/is the FBI. We know where their priorities are!

By Rob Vinson

December 10, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

He did the crime…..now he’s gonna do the time! This should be a good example of what not to do. He had it all and p** it away. I hope all of the kids out there are paying attention. He was not above the law.

By Joe Davis

December 10, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

The sentence seems right. Now, it’s time for the Vick and the Falcons to move on.

By caz1158

December 10, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

my thoughts are,it does’nt matter if i think the sentence was to harsh or not. It’s what is called for by law,simple.All people should be given second chances,unless its murder or abuse (child/spouse),and i think it will happen for vick.I do think accountability had a lot to do with the severity of the crime. another words stand up be a man and admit when your wrong,don’t wait till it’s to late before admitted wrong doing. society in general today have found it to easy not to accept responsibility and easier to blame someone else.

By PR

December 10, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

MV got what he deserved. He has no remorse. The only sorrow he has is that he got caught. He should be treated the same way he treated the poor dogs. Maybe chained to an old car wheel would be appropriate.

By Russ

December 10, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

I’ll miss his horrendously inaccurate passes and complete lack of work ethic to develop his skills.

By Gumbo

December 10, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

Hey “Lost in Amazement” - I got a word you need to go look up. It’s called “pre-meditated”.

Seems a little harsh, though….I hope the guy can make it back to the league (but not with the Falcons!!).

By Aman

December 10, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

When it comes to posts about the length of the sentence and race there are a few things I’d like to say. It seems that black men should be exempt from the law after reading some of these posts. I think the sentence was fair based on how many dogs were killed. I’m not a big fan of pit bulls but that does not mean I would buy them and then kill them. Its ridiculous and race has nothing to do with it. My suggest would be for you to find out the sentence recommendations for the crime you plan to commit before committing it.

By Sheri in East Cobb

December 10, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Mike Vick deserves the same fate as those poor creatures he brutally raped, tortured and murdered.

By Jorge

December 10, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

17 months too long in my opinion. I’m betting that this disagrees with the AJC, so they probably won’t post it.

By heartless

December 10, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

This country has had the worst injustice caused to its citizens and yet wants to punish someone for killing animals. There is hunger, war going on and poverty all over the world and right here in our country, lack of proper education for the minorities and yet you want to capitalize on this, sucks like hell!!! Vick do your sentence and you will come out a better stronger man and just remember that you cannot depend on these people for anything, make it on your own!

By gmccrcry

December 10, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

to; Mike Vick and all young black Anericans,WHAT A COUNTRY!!

By Not Again

December 10, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Just like I thought. Some of you blind idiots still don’t see the facts 6 months later. He violated the Interstate Commerce Act by taking an illegal activity over state lines, killed dogs, and failed a drug test when they told him he would be tested randomly. That is punishable by a 5 year maximum sentence, yet some of you are still whining that he got not even half of that.

And how exactly does eating meat and being against Vick equal the same? I don’t know about you, but I don’t eat dogs.

By Tom

December 10, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

I’m not going to argue the merits of the sentence. There are points to be made on both sides of that debate. All I can think of to say is:

So much talent.

Such a fall.

What a waste.

No one to blame but himself.

So sad.

By A-merry-can

December 10, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Americans can feel proud that the judiciary system works in their favor. Unfortunately black males obviously they aren’t considered Americans

By Disgruntled Atlanta Sports Fan

December 10, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

You can take the black man out of the ghetto but you can’t take the ghetto out of the black man.

By T.C.

December 10, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

To Falcons Fan I would find your take on this amusing were it unfortunately not so pervasive in the general thinking. MV’s life is ruined because HE made the choice to put his reputation and fortune at risk. Also regardless of the merits of your views on the legal status of marijuana it is in fact ILLEGAL which gives no one the right to use it just because we don’t believe it should be a crime, again MV made a choice and he must accept the consequences. When are people going to wake up and, instead of blaming everyone else for MV’s plight, point the finger of blame where it belongs at the man who made bad decisions every step of the way in this case. It is called personal responsibility MV is where he is as a result of his decisions and actions and he must live with the punishment that comes as a result of them.

By Rocket

December 10, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

I wish him the very best and hopefully he is a better person today because of this.

Allow him to serve his time and then allow him back into the league to compete for a job and a right to feed his family doing what it is he knows how to do.

By gttim

December 10, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Of course Heatley was involved in an auto accident and Vick was killing dogs for amusement- by fighting them, drowning them, electrocuting them and slamming them onto concrete. There is no moral equivalence.

By wow

December 10, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Thug = The new “N” word.

By Santa Clause

December 10, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

He’s still a punk!!

By Your Momma

December 10, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

What about all the lynchings and attacks on AA in the history of this nation,and people speak on this board as if Vick was the Devil himself. Spare me your tough talk on this board. most of you are all cowards, if Vick gets 23 months in jail so should deer hunters, our very own VP of the U.S shot his own friend in the face while hunting. Leave the young man alone. He has lost too much already, the rest of you praising his punishment because you were jealous of his success and money. And for the people that say it is not about race, you are just as ignorant and shallow as the Vick haters here!!! get a life people, dogfighting is not worse than rape or murder or child molestation. Go read a book, better yet get a life!!!

By jack in the box

December 10, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Mike must have done more than we know…no surprize, and thus the plea deal. However, in this case, me being a Fan First and a White Man second, I think this is too harsh a sentence. This is his 1st time for being convicted and it does not seem “Evenhanded” to go 23 months. Maybe 12 months with 3 to serve + Probation….After that, if Mike falters, maybe you throw the book at Him…But this is too heavy handed…Go after those who are doing REAL crimes of Murder (Humans, not Dogs), Drugs, Gangs, Illegals, etc., instead of placing SO MUCH revenge for animal rights groups.( Yeah we all know about the Interstate transportation thing and we all know that He smoked a lefthander, weed I mean, AND THAT HE HAS BEEN STUPID) Anyone else out there remember all the people those wonderful Pit Bull Dogs have maimed or killed…..A real nice breed, huh? TOO MUCH for a 1st time conVICKion.

By Ju-man

December 10, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

I was on a roll, the ‘91 Braves, the Olympics, & the Falcons in Super Bowl. Gee thanks, Mike.

By Salty Dawg

December 10, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

First of all, I think Vick absolutely should have been prosecuted for his crimes. However, 2 years is ridiculous. You can liken this to anything else you want, but the fact is he is being punished more severely than people who are convicted of much worse. I am a dog lover and I have disliked Vick for years, but he does not deserve to have his life ruined for making a mistake. An appropriate sentence would have been 1 year plus the fines. I also hope that the NFL doesn’t further this witch hunt by banning Vick after his sentence has been served.

By Kiki

December 10, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

I think the sentence is total crap. What is the purpose of federal sentencing guidelines if they are blatantly disregarded by the judges? Vick was a first-time offender and this sentence was far too harsh in my opinion. He is being used to make a statement because he is rich and famous, and I think that is unfair. What kind of country are we living in when convicted rapists, wife-beaters, child molesters, and even murderers serve less time than this??? I do not understand people who view animal’s lives as equally or more important than human lives.

By handmemycryingtowel

December 10, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

GUESS I WILL BE GETTING SEASON TICKETS FOR THE FALCONS GAME IN 2010 WHEN VICK RETURNS

By Laved11

December 10, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

I think a lot of people show their frustration of Vick because of what type of person he is… which is understandable. But I think the public will be better off if you separate the actions on the field with what type of person these superstars are.

Bill Belichick has been documented as a horrible person, along with Kobe Bryant, Mike Tyson and Bill Romanowski. But their comtributions on the field is what people focus on and what fans choose to pay attention to.

Despite his transgressions, Vick did a lot for this city and this franchise as an athlete. For a five or six year span, Atlanta mattered in the sports world and received national attention. The life the Falcons will have without Michael Vick is the same as what we had before he was drafted.

As an athlete, his contribution is undeniable and as an athlete, he will be missed. Ask any member of the Falcon organization or Falcon fan… oh wait… there are no more at the dome.

By Bob Carle

December 10, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

That dirt bag got off with a slap on the wrist compared to what a non-star athlete would have spent in jail.

By Sam

December 10, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

lOST IN AMAZEMENT, as stated many times before on this blog, Dany Heatly had a car ACCIDENT! Dan Snyder’s parents did not want him to go to jail. MV’s actions were not an accident. He knew what he was doing and he lied about it. Drop the argument. You can’t win!

By brock

December 10, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

sorry, I didn’t get to finish my statement. Gambling and fighting dogs is a felony. Traveling across state lines to gamble and fight dogs is a felony.Funding an illegal dogfighting/gambling ring is , say it together now, A FELONY. Wake up people.It’s over.Done. Finished. And so am I. I am not wasting anymore of my time on this fool and anyone who can’t see what a fool he is/was. Supporters, keep writing your nonsense. It shows your lack of intelligence when you defend this kind of behavior with comparisons to deer hunting and racism. Good riddance!!

By FalconFan60

December 10, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Hunting deer, rabbits, squirrel, or turkeys is LEGAL…..dogfighting is not. Besides, when was the last time you had fried DOG?? Wake up! This is about CRIME NOT RACE!!

By Chris

December 10, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Had he not been the quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons, had he just been “Ookie” from Bad Newz, VA, none of you people would care. You wouldn’t be here talking about “let’s give him a second chance.” If he was just some dumb thug that got caught fighting dogs (which happens all the time, by the way), none of you folks would be talking about “justice” or “harsh sentences” or protesting outside of the courthouse. Worry about your own affairs and don’t get caught up in this man’s troubles; he obviously didn’t care enough about you to stay out of trouble, so why should you care about him now?

By gdg73

December 10, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

What do expect from a judge appointed by George W. Bush?

By Aman

December 10, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

I love to see people making excuses for Vick by pointing out other cases. He did what he did and must suffer the consequences. I guarantee you that those who believe the sentence was too long would say no jail time was deserved. If Vick was a child molester the supporters would be saying, “At least he wasn’t dogfighting”.

By Monica

December 10, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

I can think of alot of other crimes that warrant less time. The man is sorry, time served would have been enough. Hopefully he will get it together and rule the NFL like he once did. The falcons will need to get another exciting qb in order to grab the attention of the city once again.

By The Nerd

December 10, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

They let child abusers who kill their own children get away with murder! Vick confesses to killing dogs, and gotten the worst punishment ever (next to juvies getting much too worse)! This is injustice!!

By Mary

December 10, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

this is very sad, but very old and tired story. Move on AJC!

By MCB

December 10, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

I wish people would stop calling dog-fighting a mistake. It’s a lifestyle. Running a red light and getting into a wreck is a mistake.
Vick’s lifestyle led him down this path. He got what he deserved.
Hopefully he will learn something from this and be a better man afterward.

By Reason

December 10, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Dear ms cook74. Hunting is not against the law, although dog fighting is. And MV knew he was breaking the law.

By Juno

December 10, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

They are just dogs. America shows its racism again in crucifying a man for nothing worthwhile. I SUPPORT Vick, not dumb dogs.

By RAMBLE ON!

December 10, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

I think this put’s VT a head of UGA in total months spent in jail for their respective football programs.

…But it’s close!

By just a good ol' boy

December 10, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

hunting deer and rabbits is different.

first off, we dont hang them, kill them by electrocution, slam them to the ground over and over, or train them to fight.

and when we kill em, we take em to the processing plant and have venison (deer meat) steaks made out of them….

Did Vick, Shug, Pookey, and lil’ stomach ache ever have a pit bull filet? I doubt it!

By dog catcher

December 10, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

pitbull bites mailman in the a$$ Americas Response: kill the dog!!

pitbull mauls little girl while shes playing in front yard Americas Response: kill the dog!!

Some cities in America have even prohibited people from owning pitbulls.

Now when Michael Vick fights dogs and kills them…. America made a 360… and immediately shed tears for the same animals they’ve always hated. Pitbulls are now “the poor innocent dogs”

By adam

December 10, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

23 YEARS wouldn’t be long enough for what he did!!!

By Donald

December 10, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

I think that Vick should of been punished but at a level that’s commensurate to the crime, his involvement, and with consideration of his criminal background. The amount of vehement that’s been displayed during since the story broke makes me question motives of our society as the majority of folks easily mobilized for the protection of animal rights; however, they are consistently absent when it comes to protection of the rights of the minority, in particularly African-americans.

By Tom

December 10, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

Vick’s attorney’s failed him PERIOD! I agree with that Dog fighting is a crime and should be handled accordingly but I also agree that Murderers, Child Molesters and the occasional star running people down in a car is wrong. According to the AJC timeline from a few months and the media Vick got the harsh EXAMPLE treatment. His co-defendant that admitted to killing the dogs got lesser punishments. I know allot of fans that stopped supporting the Falcons, including myself, because Mr. Blank and the team did not support Vick at all!!!!!! They all turned their clean SIN free heads and moved all. I really hope that America wake and realize we still have a MAJOR problem!!!!!

By Lisa

December 10, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

I’m just glad that for once, an overpaid, under-talented DIRTBAG got what he deserved. Only one problem, the sentence should have been LIFE. After all, he ended more than one life, why should he be free to do as he pleases?? Animals are like children—they need love and protection too. Twenty-three months is like a slap on the wrist compared to what he SHOULD have gotten. Vick should thank his lucky stars that I wasn’t the judge.

By Matt

December 10, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

That’s what happens when you get to big for your britches. Hopefully others will learn from this.

By Marjorie Thomas

December 10, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

I am an African American. Vick got what he deserved! End of Story!

By Disgruntled Atlanta Sports Fan

December 10, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Too much emphasis on professional athletes and not enough on teachers, police officers, fire fighters, military personnel, etc.

It is a shame athletic talent and brains sometimes seem to be mutually exclusive.

Youth is wasted on the young.

By Naydean

December 10, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

I think everyone deserves a second chance and Michael Vick is no exception. He made a horrid mistake for which he is surely paying the consequences. He is still a young man and if he never plays football again its not a loss because for his entire life he has played. Maybe its time for Michael Vick to do something else with his life. Sometimes we have to hit rock bottom to make the necessary changes. At least he has been given a second chance. Its time to heal a city so divided over this issue.

By TRS

December 10, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

I don’t feel sorry for Vick. He deserved to get a lot more than 2 years. You cannot compare hunting to dog fighting. Those two situations are not even remotely linked.

If this had been me or any other everyday joe, we’d been buried under the jail cell and probably never seen the light of day.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

I can not wait to see the Vick jerseys at the Dome tonight. People are idiots. Go buy a Norwood or a Boley jersey if you want to support your team. MV7 is gone, he’s not coming back, and he screwed us all. I guess I’m just a “hater” (can’t you people use some imagination and come up with something better than that?).

By to sue

December 10, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

hey sue: not everything is about your stupid snot-nosed brats and who their “role models” are.

you’re a poor role model yourself: cheering and deriving pleasure from the complete ruination of a man’s life. how christian of you, you snob.

By Gwinnett Dad

December 10, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

The man pleaded guilty, then went out and smoked dope while awaiting sentencing, which suggests arrogance and the lack of remorse. He has blatantly lied repeatedly and I have no doubt that if he was to pay for all of the crimes he’s committed, he’d be behind bars for life. Thus, as Martin Luther King would have wished, he is being judged by the “content of his character,” and should serve every day of his sentence.

By T3

December 10, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

23 months is exactly fair if u ask me, he killed dogs with his own hands time and time again knowingly. I dont see what fans of the falcons are upset about, Mike Vick already told you what he tought of you when he gave falcons fans the finger last year…at a home game

By GA all day

December 10, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Just remember this…there is a special place in hell for people who place judgment and try to make examples out of others on Earth. But Im not surprised. Blacks in general get tougher sentences just because. Not making it about race, but it’s the truth.

By 2LiveU

December 10, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Just think how much his street cred will be enhanced 2 years from now, after he gets out!!!

By no id

December 10, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

the punishement doesnt fit the crime due to way far worst crimes that have been done to people, not animals..yeah yeah yeah, we all know that a law was broken but was it fair? thats why a lot of people have a problem with the sentencing..people can get away with murder, rape, molestion and get probation..go figure.. on top of that the judge in this case was biased from the start since he was a proud dog lover but he also loved to hunt too..how much do u take away and how much of an example do u make of a person?..not to condone what he did but when is enough, enough?

By RAMBLE ON!

December 10, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

someone please help me

Jason Williams…goggle it!!

By Mark

December 10, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

ms cook74

Hunting animals for food has nothing to do with killing innocent dogs because they don’t fight. The thug deserves more than 23 months in my opinion.

By pffft

December 10, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

he admited to commiting a felony, he is sentenced to jail according to the law. whats the problem. he did this to himself, and now he has some time to reflect on his choices and what it has cost him. now he has another choice. continue on down this road and be in and out of prison, or get out and try to make a better life for himself. but he has absolutely nobody to blame but himself. and another thing, it doesnt matter what other people got away with, or what another persons sentence was. yeah it is a stiff sentence, but initial actions got him in trouble and his actions after the accusations surfaced led to his sentence. blame him first and his lawyers second for poor advice on how to handle the situation.

By SealT2

December 10, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Kill your preacher husband: The sentence—210 days, minus the 143 already served. No child support order. Kill fighter dogs: The sentence is 23 months, 3 years probation, charges pending in another court, $900,000 for care and upkeep of remaining dogs. Let me see if I have my economics right… Dogs are more valuable than people.

By jc_atl

December 10, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

It’s very simple people: if you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime. 23 months seems like a fair sentence for a first-time offender. Vick can redeem himself but will never wear a Falcon’s uniform again.

The Falcons need to put this sordid episode behind them and get a win tonight against the Saints.

By Dog hanger

December 10, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Vick is a lying scumbag. Who hangs a dog? What a maggot. You Vick lovers should be happy he only got 23 months.

By What is right?

December 10, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

I just want an honest opinion:

I know a man who is a self proclaimed dog lover, a deacon in his church and well loved in his neighborhood. He has had a series of pets that “just didn’t work out” and took them out and shot them with a rifle. These animals included a very sweet, but neglected in a pen labrador retriever and several cats. I am trying to understand how this man is different than Michael Vick. I was told by his wife that the issue that caused trouble for Vick was all the gambling and money. But I think the most disturbing issue is the animal abuse! This is a very wealthy couple who could easy afford euthanasia and

By QJ

December 10, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

This is a sad day in America! Why does it seem as if white America is celebrating some type of victory? Another instance of the hypocrites that govern our American judicial system. How does a dog loving judge preside over sentencing? Why is hunting and killing deer and other animals accepted, but yet Mike is viewed as a villian? White America was looking to get this guy as a symbol of their power over minorities in America…. What Mike did was wrong, but does the punishment fit the crime for a first time offender? Let’s let white America enjoy their victory and hope Mike can rebuild his life!

By BUM

December 10, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Michael WHO ????

As Arthur Blank told him in their final conversation: “You’re dead to me, Michael. It’s over. You’re dead.”

What a waste of talent.

What a waste of opportunity.

What a waste of life.

Ookie has NO ONE to blame but himself.

By duke

December 10, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

THIS IS FOR…LOST IN AMAZEMENT BLOG AT 11:17. FIRST OF ALL YOU REALLY MUST BE AN IDIOT. SECOND, THE ACCIDENT INVOLVING DANNY HEATLEY WAS AN ACCIDENT. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN…ACCIDENT…NOT MEANING TO DO SOMETHING…..WHAT DID VICK DO….OH, I’M SORRY LITTLE PIT BULL I DIDN’T MEAN TO DROWN YOU OR ELECTROCUTE YOU OR HANG YOU…GEE MUST HAVE BEEN AN ACCIDENT…YOU PEOPLE ARE ABSOLUTE IDIOTS…..I THINK HE DESERVED EVERY DAY PUNISHMENT HE GOT……THANKS, JUDGE OH BUT, BE PREPARED VIRGINIA HERE COMES THE NAACP GONNA RIOT TONITE…….

By Candy

December 10, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Dear Someone Please help me.

Everyone keeps talking about how murderers got off lighter than Vick.

Can someone please provide me with a specific example (OTHER THAN OJ) where a murderer got less than 23 months

The wife of the preacher who shot him in the back is out of jail. Do you need more examples

By RACE CARD

December 10, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

When I play it, I’m 100% GUILTY. But it works…sometimes (isn’t that right C. McKinney?).

By sundance

December 10, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

The whole thing is such a waste. A young man who had the world at his feet, now wearing prison stripes. And for what??? Why would anyone in their right mind derive pleasure from watching a bunch of animals killing each other? It’s just sad. I wonder if Michael thinks it was worth it?

By Katie

December 10, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

I’m glad he is going to jail, I wish it was for a longer amount of time. For those of you who think it is about race…you’re ignorant! It’s about wrong and right. What he did was wrong! and thinking he could get away with it b/c he has money makes it worse!

By Justice

December 10, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Anybody that wastes their time by attending a rally to support Mike Vick may as well be wearing a t-shirt that says “I’m an Idiot” !

By 82DAWG

December 10, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Close the book on Vick and move on. He wouldn’t leave his past behind and now he is paying the price. Let’s finish this catastrophic season, get a new QB in the draft and move on.

By kenney

December 10, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

i dont understand how what he did wasn’t related 2 football and all this happen but a coach was warned not 2 cheat and almost nothing happen this is racist and a shame on america. the white media and this country which i’ve served should be ashamed.

By Debbie

December 10, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

If People for the UnETHICAL Treatment of African Americans (PETA) used their energy for the betterment of mankind, we would have a far better society to live in. It is a sad case of event when white people love animals more than they do another human being of another race. They will have to come into accountability on their day of judgement before the ALMIGHTY, and their financial status will be of no avail at that time. Bottom line.

By Chess

December 10, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

What Vick did was wrong. But I had no freaking idea white people loved dogs this much. When all those alter boys were getting molested in the Catholic church no one said a thing!! Lets see how many years the Barbi Bandits gets. She was caught with weed a comitted a felony as well. She robbed a bank.

By ron

December 10, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Good sentence.Time enough to reflect and not long enough to grow old and useless.

By Chess

December 10, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

What Vick did was wrong. But I had no freaking idea white people loved dogs this much. When all those alter boys were getting molested in the Catholic church no one said a thing!! Lets see how many years the Barbi Bandits gets. She was caught with weed a comitted a felony as well. She robbed a bank.

By Phil

December 10, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

2 points:
for everyone ‘comparing’ sentences of other crimes (rapists, danny healey’s etc), go back to 9th grade and learn about our judicial system. ITS THE SAME SYSTEM IN PLACE FOR 200+ YEARS. Crimes have a sentencing guideline. If you dont agree with the guidelines, go you your legislators and ask them to help change them But whining about sentence comparisons that are based on published guidelines is like whining that offensive holding shouldnt be a penalty in an NFL game after your favorite left tackle gets a flag.

By ATL LADY

December 10, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Those of you who are getting some pleasure from ruining this man’s entire life and humiliating him to the core ought to be a shame. I am not a football fan NOR a Mike Vick fan but what I have been witnessing is a sick, twisted witch hunt on a man who made a mistake that caused the injury and death of some dogs. Not another human being. Yes, I said it. At the end of the day we are making a mockery of the U.S. justice system to ruin a man’s life because his life isn’t as important as a dog’s.

Should he be punished? Yes. But stripping this man of EVERYTHING he worked hard for based on his God-given talent is assinine. Let this man pay for his mistake. I get the picture. He gets the picture. We all get the picture that he is being made the example of in this case. But keep in mind as we all type our messages, dog fighting will continue and NO ONE will ever be made an example again the way he has. There are poor boys of all races all over America still fighting dogs and they will continue to be ignored.

It’s crazy yall. Dog lover, football fans….all of this is so stupid. If I were him, I wouldn’t dare return to the NFL when those who lifted him up to icon status are now the main ones kicking him when he’s down. R. Kelly can remain on tour, releasing albums, making millions of dollars when EVERYONE knows that’s him in the video tape having sex with and urinating on children, but Mike Vick’s career and entire life came tumbling down in the matter of months over some darn dogs! It doesn’t make sense.

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

What’s the difference between Michael Vick and Danny Heatly? I think we all know what his case was really about, you can try to hide it, but we know the truth.

By Grampus

December 10, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Say what you want about the punishment not fitting the crime, but the bottom line is don’t commit the crime and it won’t an issue. It’s that simple.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

If anyone thinks there’s not a racial aspect to this, you’re kidding yourself.

To wit: does anyone believe that the MV7 supporters, the people talking about “give him a second chance,” “we all make mistakes,” “he who has not sinned…”, would be saying any of this if Vick were white. Do you think these people would be rallying outside a courthouse if Keith Brooking had been busted fighting dogs? No, you’d all say “that white boy got what he deserved.” For shame.

By Katie

December 10, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

I’m glad he is going to jail. I wish it was for a longer amount of time. For those of you who think it is about race…you’re ignorant! It’s about right and wrong. What he did was wrong! and thinking he could get away with it because he has money makes it worse!

By Donald Kennedy

December 10, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

No Justice for the poor dogs that this sports hero ruined. We are so fortunate to have NASCAR, those folks are real sports heroes.

By Debra

December 10, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Thank God all we have to due to be forgiven by Our God is to ask, repent of our sins and he forgives us. God is the Surpreme Judge here, And Vick will not be denied entrance to Heaven based on today’s judgements! I will Mr. Vick the most talented Black Quarterback ever much success and prosperity! Jim Mora should be thrilled he managed to keep a winning quarterback and a losing record all in one. Now that’s football.

By Peter

December 10, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

Can’t do something like this for 7 years and think……

“Nope I will never get caught”

Also look what happened…..his cousin got him caught with the drug dealing episode.

Now Vick tested positive for drugs, one can only conclude, he has been this way from the get go.

He was way over paid for what he brought to the table……..

A bad attitude about being PROFESSIONAL !

By u idiots are clueless

December 10, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

Vick and three co-defendants still face trial on state dogfighting charges in Virginia. They are accused of torturing and killing dogs and promoting dogfights — all felonies that carry five-year maximum sentences.

vick might get even more time people. this is just the beginning. if he does he might never set foot on a football field again.

By Crop Circles on my dome

December 10, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Let’s compare the Michael Vick scenario to Danny Heatley’s manslaughter charge.

Danny Heatley’s was an ACCIDENT. No pre-meditation. He did not go out that night with the intent of killing his best friend in a car wreck.

Michael Vick was keenly aware that innocent dogs’ were being harmed, killed and mistreated ( he even admitted to personally executing two them ). He and his cohorts also profited monitarily.

So the comparison between the two really holds no water.

By haha

December 10, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Hey A-merry-can

I guess OJ isnt considered black by your standards, since the US justice system doesnt work for black men.

nice try, but stop trying to make EVERYTHING about race.

Cant you just admit that your boy MV screwed up and is now having to serve his punishment.

By FalconsFan007

December 10, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

I think the punishment is just fine, not too easy not too harsh. He did test positive for marijuana and denied the charges at first. What I do not find fitting is that they’re going after him with state charges too! They’re trying to use him as a deterrance for anyone else doing this, it doesn’t work. People will still be stupid and dog fight. Vick doesn’t need extra charges just to show your point.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Can someone please provide me with an accurate definition of the word “hater”? It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

By Steve

December 10, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Vick’s imprisonment of 23 months is much too short for the crimes he committed. I hope that the state gives him the maximum so that when Vick leaves the Federal program he will have to be transferred to a state penal facility and serve at least 5 more years.

By Michelle

December 10, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

can someone tell me why he got 23 months and Heatly got probation for KILLING someone, drinking and driving? If Vick is paying to take care of dogs, who is going to take care of them when he gets out, are they going to give them back or give them to a family with kids with hopes they don’t get vicious. If this is not racial I would like to the the reason to get such a harsh sentence for DOG fighting. I don’t think dog fighting is right but neither is drinking and driving and putting someone elses life in danger or even taking it. Taking his title, money and pride should have been enough.

By hate Vick

December 10, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Less than 2 years for the heinous torture of dogs is appalling. What about a felony, 10 years or more? I hope that sponsors and the Falcons are reading this. I will never purchase anything from anyone supporting this abusive man, not in 2 years, not in 20 years. He can pack it up along with Michael Jackson, OJ Simpson and other celebrities who got off because of their celebrity. Who cares the guy can play ball whe he has no moral compass.

By ynot

December 10, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

He threw it all away for dog fighting. I still can’t believe it. How could he not know it was against the law?

By CL

December 10, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

How many people want to bet that he won’t serve all 23 months. After one year he will be out then ESPN will be talkiing about what team wil pick him him and who needs a QB or better yet who needs to sell tickets.

By HE DIDN'T GET 23 MONTHS FOR DOGFIGHTING

December 10, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

He got 23 months for financing an interstate gambling operation, an operation that fought dogs against one another.

By Mike Lover 4 Ever

December 10, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

I hope he bust out that prison soon and get back in alanta so he can play four the falcons agin and show the world his the best football player in all time and no white judge or jury can stop him from winning another superbowl for our city and make it right with all the fans that love him like i do with knowing how good he is with all the haters tearing hime down jus becaus he like to fight stinkin dogs all because of a bunch of dogs whats up with that

By caz1158

December 10, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

i was waitin to see how long it would take before Bush’s name was brought into this discussion. Is there anything in world that happens that has’nt been his fault. A MIND IS A TERRIBLE THING TO WASTE!!! People grow up and get a clue.

By OpinionsAreLike

December 10, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

What happened to the 20 million in bonuses? Why borrow money from banks when you have 20 million?

By July Jones

December 10, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand the degree to which people of one race will go to the ends of the earth to defend another person of that race.

Are you really willing to put your credibility on the block by backing this moron ?

By Dee

December 10, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

This is ridiculous. I guess everyone is happy that another Black Man has been brought down for some damn dogs. This country is truly amazing.

By J Sewell

December 10, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Vick will redeem himself, he is still God’s child and noone is perfect, he made some mistakes in his life, he is regretful, remorseful and he has apologized (which is more than some of us have done). Vick is a great athlete and even if he does not play for the NFL again his athletic ability and experiences in life will be used to benefit and uplife another human being to become what he was on his way to become. I believe that things happen for a reason and that this was a part of God’s plan for Michael. We have all fallen short at some point in our life but because of who he is he will have to pay a bigger price. I will be praying for him and I truly believe that this will make him a better man for himself and his children. Any man can overcome what he has had to deal with in the last 6 months can overcome anything in life. He is the reason that I watch football today, I never saw anyone display such great athletic talent on the field, ever, before watching Michael take his position on the field. I looked forward to every season, every tailgate, and every game when he was around and I thank him for giving me those years of excitement, thrill and greatness and I look forward to whats next for him in the next couple of years. We love you Mike.

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

What’s the difference between Michael Vick and Danny Heatley? Is a dog’s life worth more than a man’s. I think we all know what this case was about, no matter how they try to sugar coated it, call it race baiting or what ever, the truth is known.

White folks and their dogs made this law. There used to be no law protecting dogs. In fact the bible gives them no protection either.

By Ltc Dane P. Clark (RET)

December 10, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

I find it amazingley, and yet distressing; that a man can be put away for 2 years in this country over animal abuse. Nowhere else in the civilized world could this happen. I guess the left-winged idiots have finally suceeded in equating human life and animal life. What Vick did was stupid and brutal, but 2 years? Give me a break!

By Monte

December 10, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

You can blame Blank, Mora, the Falcons, the judge or the legal system or blame it on racism.

But, Michael Vick has no one to blame but Michael Vick. I think at this stage of his life it’s time to be a man and show some responsibility for his actions.

If you love dogs or hate them it really doesn’t apply here because, agree with it or not, dogfighting is ILLEGAL and Vick knew that when he started his ill-fated venture. It must have been a risk he was willing to take. I don’t know how I feel about his 23 months but his actions while waiting for sentencing certainly did nothing to help his cause. I hope when he gets out of prison he can put his life back together. But, I fear his NFL days may be over.

By td

December 10, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

“Divided city?” Yeah, we’re divided. Divided between those who think that convicted felons should be held accountable for their crimes, and those who don’t care about justice for those who can run a 4.4 40.

By Jimmy Etheridge

December 10, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Beautiful. So now what happened to Vick is George W. Bush’s fault?

By mschris711

December 10, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

This is nothing but pure racism. People do far worse than dog fighting, and get far less time. Someone had better document the money Vick paid because these organizations do not do what they’re supposed to do with donations, so imagine what will happen to all this money. Furthermore, dog fighting continues today, and some families make a living from dog fighting and they haven’t been targeted. Guess what color their skin is?

By Rufus

December 10, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

anybody still think he was carrying “jewlery” in that Miami airport? The guy thought he was above the law. He got off easy..

By weetods

December 10, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

to those saying he got off light for his celebrity:

ARE YOU ON CRACK? He got the book thrown at him because he was a celebrity.

If this were me or you, it’d be maybe a years’ probation with some community service and counseling. We wouldn’t be “thrown under the jail”.

The fact of the matter is that federal legislators CHANGED THE LAW to make what Vick did a felony (it was previously a misdemeanor). This is obviously a case of the gov’t trying to make an example.

Telling that they throw the book at a ridiculously talented black athlete with a history of charity and generousity (for crimes that previously didn’t exist), while the absolutely useless Paris Hiltons of the world who endanger HUMANS with their irresponsible and criminal behavior get mere hours in lockup.

Shoulda took your money and ran, Mike!

By Allen Franklin

December 10, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

What can we all agree on? What he did was wrong - I think we all agree. Will he learn and grow from this - we all can hope so. Can we all just try to tone down the bitterness from all concerned - I pray so..

Ex-Atlantan - now living in Ca…

By Phil

December 10, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

So, Laved11, let me make sure I understand your point……….as long as you give good contribution on the field, your off-the-field actions are excused? NO, you cant separate the two actions. Its the same person, its the same city, its the same fanbase. The rest of the country was laughing at Atlanta long before the dogfighting case (marijuana water bottle - yeah, that wasnt his right, we know that now since drug test proved he is straight, LOL - Ron mexico the herpes man, flipping off his ‘beloved’ fans after a game…., etc) - it didnt take dogfighting for the rest of the country to laugh at Atlanta, they already had all the subject matter needed

By SKJ

December 10, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

Let’s move on Atlanta!!!

By Russ

December 10, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

dog catcher, that would be a 180, not a 360 in your argument.

By joseph

December 10, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

The headline “Will be 2009 before he plays NFL” —- I hope is incorrect. Should have read “Is Banned From NFL For Life!”

23 months is ok on the length of jail time…..but to ‘forgive and forget’ would not be in the interest of either MV or NFL

By cmon already

December 10, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

“By Short Term Memory

December 10, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

If America’s judiciary system was fair to blacks, people wouldn’t think this was racially charged sentence. Unfortunately the judiciary system thinks every black male is born a criminal and we’d be better off behind bars instead of with our families”

please the only thing more ridicules than thinking that typing all bold or all caps makes your post more important, is complaining that you go to jail for breaking the law. dont like the prospect of jail, forget taking responsibility, just dont commit the crime. atleast now we can stop worrying about if they get mike back, and thay can go out and get a good QB. one that will win games, and not break laws and bring shame to his team. an yeah he will be back with someone one day. as long as he can play ball, someone will give him a shot. it is a bussiness. and after he does his time he should get the opportunity to rebuild his life.

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

White folks never cease to amaze me. You’ve got white preachers going around screwing their member’s wives, their brother’s wife and even their granddaughter, yet nobody is raising hell about that. But let a black man kill a dog and all hell breaks loose.

By Correction Please

December 10, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

To: Dodobrown

Please do not lump all Black people with Mike Vick, the actions of Mike Vick, nor with the unrealistic oversimplification of life (e.g., dogs as the new slaves) that spew from your mouth. Thank God WE are not all monolithic in OUR beliefs and thoughts as people like you want these bloggers, the City of Atlanta, and the Nation to believe.

By Truth

December 10, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

23 MONTHS FOR FIGHTING DOGS!?! WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH THESE PEOPLE? OH I ALMOST FORGOT THAT THIS IS THE COUNTRY THAT ONCE TREATED DOGS WITH MORE RESPECT THAN BLACK PEOPLE. GUESS THINGS REALLY DO COME BACK AROUND HUH? REALLY SAD.

By Lost in Amazement

December 10, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Gumbo, what brilliant logic you have.

SO ATTENTION ALL DRUNK DRIVERS, SINCE YOU DO NOT INTEND TO KILL PEOPLE BECAUSE YOU CHOOSE TO DRIVE DRUNK, YOU WILL ONLY RECEIVE PROBATION. THANK YOU AND BOTTOMS UP!

Clear case of emotion overcoming logic.

By Brett

December 10, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Micheal Vick is the most dangerous person ever to walk the planet according to PETA and it’s supporters. Perhaps they will have daily round the clock protests at the prison for the next twenty three months or will they all just get together at the casino.

By Dion

December 10, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

I think it is a damn shame that they could snatch someone’s lively hood over some damn dogs. Especially when people like Danny Heatley gets probation for taking a human life and child molesters, rapest gets less time for far worse crimes. Where the hell is the justice system (really). If Vick was a white man this would have never come to this. Yes I said white, it is a black and white thing. The hell with PETA. Check there records and see what what kind of mistakes they may have made in there life. I love Vick and when he comes back harder and stronger then what. So to all you Vick haters it want be long before he is back.

By Sandy

December 10, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

I’ve prayed for Michael and his family since the very beginning. I sent heartfelt prayers up last night that the judge would rule justly. I am very hurt and disappointed in the sentencing; however, God allows all things. Society has closed a door on Michael but God will open “another” door. I am not a pet lover nor am I a pet hater. Obviously several people did not freshen up on their biblical knowledge. If they had then they would know to never put animals before God, or before man, who has been made in the image of God. People sometimes allow pets to come between themselves and everything else. God cares about animals and they are not forgotten. I do not condone what Michael and others did; however, I find it hardening that one can take away a mans livelihood over an animal and allow those that hurt “humans” to walk freely on the streets. This is another example of the “last days”!!!

By zone1atl/borngator

December 10, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

im not a falcon fan or vick supporter but where is the outrage over sean taylor’s murder. where is the masses that came out to support some damn dogs. it just goes to show a black life don’t mean nothing in america!

By welcome back

December 10, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

thanks for commenting on the Vick case. Been missing you closet racists. too busy hoping for redemption w/ O.J.? All that talk about how the falcons need to get rid of him , and he’s not this and that… where have yall been? look at the number of bloggers when we have been loosing all year, versus when Vick has a post connected to damn near every article written on him. The AJC is playing you! don’t worry, we all know you are really uga and gt fans. and vick haters, not falcon lovers. you could care less if the falcons win or loose as long as the quarterback does not represent hip-hop(which by the way suburbia atlanta, go listen to your white kids i-pod and see what they are listening to..it aint travis tritt. it has invaded your homes and communities and what can you do about it?nothing. you just keep giving little timmie the money that he sneeks and buys it, learns all the lyrics and figures out for himself that you can’t turn on the t.v. withput hip-hop generating millions of dollars and your accountants love it!)for you it;s aboutif the braves win, uga beats hawaii, and gt has enough helmets to immitate a football program.we love you mv7. not for what you did, but for what you are going to become.admit, repent, and move on.

By jason smith

December 10, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

This is an over-reaction, just like the Duke Lacrosse case….in this case it is an attack on a successful black athlete…put in context, sponsoring fights by pit bulls designed for dogfighting, while not even punishing people for attacks by their own pitbulls on children (or just getting a minor fine), not even having leash laws to protect children, not even outlawing specific aggressive breeds, or failing to recognize certain breeds have a propensity for aggressiveness is responsible for the faulty logic which ultimately incriminated Vick…he, like many others today who are too rich too early, enjoyed an unfathomable amount of money at a young age….other celebrities of notoriety have done much worse, endangered other people, and gotten off a lot easier, so why are animals’ rights more important than humans’…..if Vick and others were not placed on such a lofty pedestal, they might actually be seen as regular fallible human beings….the faulty logic at work here is that, since he is such an exemplary athlete, he is supposed to just be ordinary off the field…his quirks and faux pas greatly exceed ours, but don’t assume you would not have the same excessive lifestyle as he enjoys…and don’t allow people to own aggressive breeds and then punish them for letting the dogs do what comes naturally….and don’t be reactionary…OJ got away, let’s make Vick pay…or the lacrosse players were innocent, let’s make Vick pay the price….keep things in perspective…but it is too late for that in our politically charged, racially and ethnically divided country, isn’t it???

By Russ

December 10, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

RAMBLE ON, You’re right, Jason Williams looks funny in GOGGLES.

By Mel

December 10, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Don’t blame the Falcons season on Vick. The Falcons are horrible and will hopefully get some good draft picks. Atlanta has too many fans jumping on and off the Falcons bandwagon anyway!

By CDS

December 10, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

Oh, I cannot wait to be at the Dome tonight! I get to see all those idiots yelling “Free Mike Vick!” like that’ll actually accomplish something.

People on here have brought up hunting, hating pit bulls, and other crimes trying to compare it.

For you people bringing up hunting, I’ve never heard of killing deer or a rabbit by hanging, drowning, or electrocution then taking it home and eating it. Normally, people shoot it in the head, and it dies. Besides, IT’S NOT ILLEGAL!

For you complaining about the fact they they were just dogs, they were still living, breathing, mammals that he and others killed with no remorse other than feeling bad about the amount of money they lost on a fight.

As for the other crimes, show me a rapist, murderer, or child abuser who was found guilty on their first offense and given half the maximum sentence? Yeah, I thought not.

Get some facts before you post useless junk.

By DAMED YANKEE

December 10, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

Are you folks crazy? being a dog lover all my life, is not the issue the issue is, should a man loose everything for the crime , no we kill thousands of dogs every day that people like you, dont take care of, I think its becouse he is blk and thats it

By too bad

December 10, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

I don’t care about the dogs and what he did with them. He had the world in his hands and decided to funnel it into an illegal business. He knew it was wrong from the beginning. He chose not to seperate himself from the criminals from his youth. He also couldn’t even pass a drug test while he was waiting to go to jail. How stupid it that! Maybe he will make a decision to leave that lifestyle behind. Too bad his friends and his activities cost him his millions. The IRS will probably be next to go after the illegal business venture.

By ConservativeDem

December 10, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

First of all, STOP pretending animals are equal to humans!!! You may want your golden calf to worship but me and my family do not worship animals. It is a lie that animals feel like humans! They do not have a soul and they are property. Now, Vick broke the law but the law should have never been on the books. Your argument about animal rights is soooo shallow—just like your love for mankind and Amercia.

By td

December 10, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

For those thinking Vick will be out of jail early: federal law requires you serve at least 85% of the sentence. So 85% of 23 is about 20 months. He’s served one month already, so he has 19 months left. That means he will be out of jail June 2009. That doesn’t seem to be enough time to get in shape and possibly serve an NFL suspension in time to play in 2009. So Vick will be out of the league for three seasons before he will likely be allowed to come back.

By Logical

December 10, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

This sentence is completely out of line for a first time offender. The law is supposed to provide equal justice.

In this case Vick seems to have been punished in part for being famous, Losing $142M and nearly two years of your life for this crime is unreasonable and excessive.

I have never really like Vick as a QB or a person, but that should not matter in court.

By Xytricia

December 10, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

What I don’t get about the whole thing is how has he not taken full responsibility for his actions. When he pled guilty and made that statement, I felt that he had taken responsiblity. I believe that was an excuse the judge gave for given Vick a riducolous sentence. I don’t believe this was justice for anybody. It just goes to show that one group of people like PETA is just a group of A-Holes who so happen to get their way….

By haha

December 10, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Am I worng or didnt the CIA just destroy tapes of toutre of prisoners? wheres there justice? wheres the long line of protesters? Nobody cares about human lives anymore its the same crime diffrent results! So in order to avoid proscution do what the govement does just destroy all evidence and you will be fine.

By Your Momma

December 10, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

QJ

You gave one one the best post, thanks!!!

By fatz

December 10, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

he’s lost this season and an absolute ton of money. i don’t know- i think its enough. let him do some sort of rehabilitative work and get on with his life. he might actually be able to do something positive for society instead of being just thrown on the trash heap. i think he should be out of jail by the summer and free to attempt a comeback (but not here- his “fan base” here needs to take one for the “team” - society - for their ridiculous responsibility-shirking attitude). the idiot poindexter, who tried to let this whole thing blow over until the feds finally said NO WAY and took over the investigation, is now trying to save his political hide by piling on with a state trial this spring. THAT one should go away. look- justice HAS been served- this guy’s been disgraced in the public eye- and he’s just about lost every cent he ever made. i don’t see where locking him up for 2 years serves any real purpose other then retributional overkill. i’m white and i admit i’ve never liked the idea that a black athlete has been made the poster child for a historically rural white enterprise. i cringe that dogfighting even exists and hopefully this whole episode sends a message- one that should be forced on rural county sheriff depts to carry forward in dealing with the good ol boys who started this subhuman sport. lets just don’t make this a crucifixion ceremony for the hip-hop crowd and walk away satisfied. there are things far more heinous going on out there.

By BC

December 10, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

You are the sum of your choices Ron Mexico….stay off the weed when you get out or you’ll be right back in.

By BullDawg Rick

December 10, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Be the mastermind in the killing of 2 human beings (Ray Lewis)…

Miss no playing time…

Be the mastermind in dogfighting…

Get 23 months in the Fed…

Something is WRONG with this picture..

Also, the only thing PETA stands for is People Eating Tasty Animals!!!

By low down dirty shame

December 10, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

example of a 2007 style lynching

By ms. charitable giver

December 10, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Since Mike Vick played football in Atlanta, why couldn’t some of the money (that he had to pay) go to HOSEA Feed the Hungry Program. It’s a shame that dogs are more important than individuals going hungry. This is about stripping this man of everything because Atlanta has no team. If you can’t sell tickets, get the PETA people to buy tickets and hold up their signs in the empty Georgia Dome.

By Mark

December 10, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Mike Lover 4 Ever

Ever heard of using a period in a sentence? Your lack of sentence structure only shows how ignorant you really are.

By Herbert McDounough

December 10, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

“There’s a comradere among the men on the prison block. Like on a championship team in the heat of a pennant drive.”

“Maybe his advisers are confused.”

By jason smith

December 10, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

This is an over-reaction, just like the Duke Lacrosse case….in this case it is an attack on a successful black athlete…put in context, sponsoring fights by pit bulls designed for dogfighting, while not even punishing people for attacks by their own pitbulls on children (or just getting a minor fine), not even having leash laws to protect children, not even outlawing specific aggressive breeds, or failing to recognize certain breeds have a propensity for aggressiveness is responsible for the faulty logic which ultimately incriminated Vick…he, like many others today who are too rich too early, enjoyed an unfathomable amount of money at a young age….other celebrities of notoriety have done much worse, endangered other people, and gotten off a lot easier, so why are animals’ rights more important than humans’…..if Vick and others were not placed on such a lofty pedestal, they might actually be seen as regular fallible human beings….the faulty logic at work here is that, since he is such an exemplary athlete, he is supposed to just be ordinary off the field…his quirks and faux pas greatly exceed ours, but don’t assume you would not have the same excessive lifestyle as he enjoys…and don’t allow people to own aggressive breeds and then punish them for letting the dogs do what comes naturally….and don’t be reactionary…OJ got away, let’s make Vick pay…or the lacrosse players were innocent, let’s make Vick pay the price….keep things in perspective…but it is too late for that in our politically charged, racially and ethnically divided country, isn’t it???

By vick-guy

December 10, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

only if Vick played Hockey he would be at home today. what’s wrong with that picture(Color).

By CD

December 10, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

This sentence is 1000% unfair. He has already put up $1,000,000 for the upkeep of his ex-dogs. How can it possibly cost a mil to take care of 53 dogs? He messed up but this should not cost the man his whole career and all he has worked for. 6 months behing bars, $1mil in fine and 6 years probation would have been much more fair. How can you crucify this man for this??? P.S. I love dogs and am white!!

By Speak Truth

December 10, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

First let me say that I love animals. I have dogs and will always have dogs. 24 months is excessive. Had Michael Vick been white, this story would never have received this much publicity. Was it wrong? Yes it was. Is it worth losing his career? No it is not. We have real criminals walking the street, committing murders, raping and kidnapping. We have a president that is ruining the country, sending our children to a war that never should have happened. Our land is in peril. People are dying everyday because they have no health insurance. The man made a mistake. If they put the camera and spotlight on you, what would they find. Sin is sin. He who is without sin, cast the first stone.

By rkquiet

December 10, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Looks like the Oakland Raiders will have a new QB in 2010

By ghandi

December 10, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Ltc Dane P. Clark (RET)

For the record….it is illegal to kill a cow in India.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Hey CL, he will NOT be out in a year. Inmates must serve at least 85% of their time on a federal charge. Nice try, but perhaps you should learn about things of which you speak, genius.

By GeorgiaYankeesFan

December 10, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Can someone please explain to me why some folks are so intent on defending this millionaire when there are so many other worthy causes to support (Jena 6)? Fact: Vick bankrolled a dogfighting ring; Fact: dogfighting is illegal; Fact: this took place across statelines and thus became a federal matter; Fact: Vick waited until his friends made deals to cop a plea; Fact: Vick was allowed to remain free on bail prior to sentencing; Fact: Vick tested positive for pot while awaiting sentencing and was lucky he wasn’t tossed in jail sooner; Fact: Vick was given an opportunity to be cooperative and help gov’t out; Fact: He failed to do this and apparently wasn’t cooperative until he was hooked up to a polygraph; Fact: while hooked up to a polygraph he admitted killing dogs. Please do not try to turn this man into a victim, he was a grown man, as a pro he had exposure to some fantistic people who could had led him to greatness. And let’s remember for every Vick there are hundreds of Warrick Dunns who lead good lives. With that said, once Vick gets out of jail he deserves a 2nd chance in whatever he chooses to do in life, and I hope and pray he uses this second chance to its fullest.

By T

December 10, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

I think this is horrible. A complete miscarriage of justice. Prison is supposed to keep menaces to society off the street. If this guy volunteered to go to Animal Sensitivity Training, volunteered to do time early, has lost his livelihood, his homes, practically everything, that is MORE than enough punishment for what amounts to a petty crime in the grand scheme of things, i.e. think of lying to start a war, murder, stealing, etc. These offenses are much more prison-worthy than the funding of turncoat bums living off of someone else’s talent and hard work. Considering Virginia is just as redneckish as Georgia, I think only prayer and a miracle from the Most High will keep those redneck vultures from trying to suck even more blood from Vick’s veins. He and his family are in my prayers. God Bless this racist azz country. Sigh P.S. To those who say race has nothing to do with anything, please call me, there’s some land I want to sell you.

By Ms. J

December 10, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

By Ms. J SAM, How is driving drunk an accident?

By C

December 10, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

I support Mike Vick 110%. Yes he made a mistake and he should be held accountable. But damn folks, did ya’ll have to run him through the ringer? We ALL know how white people feel about animals. You can kill a person before you can kill an animal. Sad how people are ready to hang you when you kill an animal, but hundreds and thousands of PEOPLE are dying everyday and we don’t even raise a finger, let alone stand outside with signs protesting. Just some advice; animals are freaking animals. I don’t see you going down to the farms to protest the slaugtering of cows, chickens, and pigs because that would mean you couldn’t contribute to the increasing obesity rate in America. Get a freaking life!

By Justice, That's All

December 10, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Last week I saw an article in the AJC where a 21-year-old illegal immigrant mom allowed her 8-month baby to be routinely abused and sexually molested by her, disgruntled, 41-year-old boyfriend. The child, who is now 19 months-old will never have children of her own and will, likely, never walk.

The mom got PROBATION. And Mick Vick got 23 months. Where is the justice???

By JP

December 10, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

The sentence covers more than just dog fighting. Dont’ forget the gambling operation. Don’t forget that he came up positive for marijuana while awaiting sentencing.

23 months may seem harsh for a single issue, but when you look at the gambling, ( racketeering charges?) it could have been much worse.

By J Sewell

December 10, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Vick will redeem himsefl! We love you Michael.

By Dave

December 10, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

I just hope something good comes out of all this and that good should be that PETA pickets the GA state legislature until it becomes illegal to own a fighting dog or attend a dog fight. The GA legislature is complicit in that they have made dogfighting no big deal and people like Vick are partly their responsibility because they were so lax. It is time to clean out the doghouse at the state legislature next election.

By the truth

December 10, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Inquisitive, That was an arbitrary counterpoint. That didn’t even really make sense. Second, I am white. Third, I think prison is extremely excessive. Take the man’s money, fine. Monitor him so he doesnt do it again, fine. But I will be darned to be persuaded by a bunch of bored white women with picket signs. THERE ARE REAL PROBLEMS OUT THERE YOU LONLEY OLD HAGS Why should this derive such media attention. All that happens is some judge now has a bunch of tree hugging, flannel wearing, buchies lobbying and influencing his better judgement. Yeah it was such a horrible thing, but not that bad. They are just some dogs. These arent people. And for all of you peta broads out there, dog fighting has beeing ongoing since the first dogs were domesticated. And guess what you mulet having scisor sisters, dog fighting will be around forever. So destroying a football icon will only make you feel better for about five minutes. Here’s an idea INSTEAD OF LOBBYING OUTSIDE OF A COURTHOUSE, DO SOMETHING PRODUCTIVE LIKE FIND AND STOP OTHER DOG FIGHTERS

By Disappointed

December 10, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

White America Sucks!! yet another lynching of a young black man…Very Sad!

By Steve

December 10, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

That’s it? 23 mos? If he’s the kingpin and the other two rolled on him, how did he wind up with only 2 - 5 months less than the other two? That’s hardly throwing the book at him. Oh yeah, I forgot, he didn’t profit from his cash donations. That must be it.

By SealT2

December 10, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Everyone who has not broken the law, please sign in. Grampus, Katie, and all of you others self righteous people, don’t be shy. Speak up!! Also add your crime and why you should not be punished. I bet you don’t have the guts to admit your guilt eventhough no one knows who you are.

By Jefferson Davis

December 10, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

If I would have known yall were gonna be this much trouble, I would have picked my own damn cotton.

By A-merry-can

December 10, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Why you thinks blacks rejoiced when he got off? He’s the ONLY brotha out of Millions that was successful! Hey Haha you heard of Jenna 6, Genarlow Wilson, or Emmitt Till? So they were convicted justly? Oh yeah, what about the little girl in Texas that was sentence to 2year for moving a teacher aside so she could go to school. Oh yeah, what about crack dealers that get life over cocaine dealers who get a slap on the hand for the same crime. Where’s you justice now? OJ/MJ those are a few examples out of millions who suffer from the hands of US Justice

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

Crop Circles on my dome, since you say Danny Heatley’s deal was an ACCIDENT, please explain to me how so many other people who was in that same predicament got charged with VEHICULAR HOMICIDE?? Heatley was a white boy that got off. They sentenced the black man in conyers that ran over the family at McDonald’s. And this brother was sick, but they still threw his azz in jail.

By V-Enus

December 10, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

This only happen to mike because they want him out. They got in Joey Harrington to take his place. Coinciedents?

By Soryu

December 10, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Vick will never come back as QB—do you want a convicted felon as the face of your franchise? When Vick gets out of prison sometime in 2009 and then spends another 12 months of NFL suspension, the Falcon QB will be Brian Brohm or maybe Colt Brennan. Vick if he doesn’t go to prison on state charges (forget about those did you?) will end up on some NFL team—but never as a QB and never as a Falcon as anything. So you Vick fans get ready to become Raider or Ravens fans.

By ONCE AGAIN, IT WASN'T THE DOG FIGHTING THAT GOT VICK 23 MONTHS IN FEDERAL LOCK-UP

December 10, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

It was the financing of an interstate gambling operation that got Vick 23 months in federal lock-up, not dogfighting.

By Jennifer

December 10, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

I disagree with the 23 month punishment. 6 months max, probation and he could have gone out and spoken to crowds regarding his circumstances and dog fighting can mess you life up. If PETA is so concerned then they would have wanted Vick’s punishment to be used in a positive way as well. PETA is just a bunch of contradicting people who use their power on their time and when it’s good for them. 23 months is unheard of and if the state of Virginia goes after him then they ought to be ashamed of themselves as well.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Hey Brett, could you please point me to where PETA claimed that Michael Vick was the most dangerous person on the face of the planet? I guess I missed that press release. Thanks in advance.

By T

December 10, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Forgot to mention one more thing. Here’s a PSA for all future celebs and noncelebs who might find themselves on the other side of the law: DO NOT HIRE BILLY MARTIN, THE MOST OVERRATED ATTORNEY EVER. Hiring and subsequently not firing Billy Martin, who continues to show his incompetence, is where Vick went most wrong. Martin shouldn’t take a dime of that man’s money. What an incompetent negro.

By Lost in Amazement

December 10, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Sam, Gumbo and the like.

Danny Heatley drank before he drove. He was driving far too fast, hit a wall so hard his car split in two and somneone died.

Are you with a straight face saying this is worse than killing a dog?

By macca

December 10, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

2 + 2 = 5 is a mistake. trying to sneak contraband onto an airplane is an error in judgement. 5 years of systemic torture of animals is a felony, and the man got what he deserved.

By S

December 10, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

The way I look at is that here’s a young man who can get a viable job and work to support himself, yet the gov decides to send his butt to jail over some stupidness and for the next two years my tax dollars will have to go to support his three square meals that he himself is capable of earning. Is he a threat to society? I think not and i don’t think the prison system was designed for individuals like him.

And I don’t care what anybody says, I should have seem some or heard from some animal rights activists, when they they did the fox hunting story a few weeks ago, yet mums the word.

Seems to me that America sees what it wants to see, yet turns a hypocritical blind eye when the dirt is in their own backyard.

Not to say that Vick wasn’t wrong, but if we’re going to deal with him, then we need to deal with all the others who engage in this kind of activity whether it be dogs, roosters, foxes or any other kind of animal. We know this stuff goes on. Where is the federal gov and police and such.

And where are Mikes opponents in the dog fighting world. He wasn’t fighting himself. There had to be other dog kennels he fought with.

Questions that need to be asked, but no one seems to want to answer.

And I’m not the greatest Vick or Falcons fan. It just seems to me that this situation could have been dealt with better rather than tie up tax dollars and media to make a spectacle of ourselves…

By Dell

December 10, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

I think I will join the rest of you Hillbilly’s and put on my fatigues and strap on my riffle and bow and go hunting, except it won’t be for deers,rabbits,turkeys,bears,moose, or what ever else you Hillbilly’s hunt for it will be for DOGS and I will mount the heads over my fireplace. Remember one thing, just because it’s legal it don’t make it right. Dog Hater.

By can

December 10, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Why is the AJC trying to stir up reactions to this already racially charged case. I agree this is blatant race baiting. Pining white against black. And everyone is playing right into their hands. Great job. This is the reason why I quit subscribing to the AJC.

By Rick

December 10, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Let this be a lesson to all black men. Stop breaking the law.

It not only the dog fighting, its the gambling, and also buying and transporting animals across state borders for illegal gambling.

And some of you ignorant people think this has to do with race.

If you have a problem with our justice system stop complaining, pull up your pants, put down the blunt and go to law school.

Some of you people really need to get your ish together and stop it with the blame game, the whole “victim” mentality is tired and old.

Here is an idea, grow up and become a productive member of society!! What a novel concept….

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

CDS says this about deer and rabbits, Normally, people shoot it in the head, and it dies. Besides, IT’S NOT ILLEGAL! OK, WITH THAT BEING SAID, WHY DON’T WE MAKE A LAW WHERE WE CAN HUNT DOGS AND SHOOT THEM IN THE HEAD?

By Cheryl

December 10, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

I am certainly disappointed with the sentencing. Vick, is a thug… and assuredly, will always be a thug. He had the questionable “water- bottle” incident and claimed- oh, whoa’s me… now this. I’m certain his past criminal activity is vast. I’m even more certain- that there is zero remorse. Vick- got off good with 23 months. Too good. But, that’s sports, hype and politics.

By Relia

December 10, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

Come on people….this is way too harsh!!!

By Wise Up

December 10, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

It amazes me that so many animal lovers did not care about the fate of the Atlanta Falcons. Let’s face it, PETA people don’t buy Falcon tickets, they don’t wear Nike’s, and they aren’t really concerned about dog fighting because it still exists today, and no one is being targeted — and they know who the families are that make millions of dollars. They just targeted the people who bet hundreds and, maybe, a few thousand dollars because those are usually Black men.

By BigVern

December 10, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

So what?!

Not near enough time for this thug of a football player. For once his status didn’t get him off the hook. He’s a thug people. Nothing more, nothing less. He will always be a thug. Period! The only thing he’s sorry for is getting caught. 23 months ain’t gonna change a thing about Michael Vick…he’ll get a jailhouse education on how to do things even better when he gets out. In the end this all just a bunch of hype/BS.

By just-us

December 10, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

speeding is not lawful every one that drive knowes that. But kill some one while driveing and get no time. The law is for the black man the rule is for the white man. both were wrong only one get time!

By FreeMikeVick

December 10, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

I dont get it. Whitey can hunt deers because it is part of their upbringing and culture, but the black man can not embrace his culture without going to jail.

Mr Blanks, I just burned the remaining season tickets I had. Nuff said!

You wont be seing around ever again!

By Darrin "The Vent King"

December 10, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

I think the worst thing about this is that it has brought out the “ugliest” in people in general both for those against and for Vick. This human race will never succeed until we seperate what’s right and what’s wrong with how much material gain someone has. (Britney, Nicole Richie, Paris Hilton, really how important are these people to your daily existence really?) These crimes are no more foul than if Mike Schtchick(who? exactly) had committed them, but because we allow Vick’s fame and fortune to affect us so into believing he is more important than say a doctor, teacher, or one of our soldiers in Iraq risking their lives so we can sit him and waste time hating on each other over something THAT man did. He has to pay a bigger price because we are the fools putting these celebrities on a pedastal in the 1st place. “Well he’s a person of influence!” Well is that coming from all these bloggers who talk like they know so much? Those who claim their point of view is so better than the “moron” they are yelling at in CAPS? If all of you are so right and strong-minded, who is he influencing, the children? I don’t hear the 9 yr olds and 11 yr olds calling each other names over this, just us adults. The children I’ve heard show more compassion and willingness to forgive even though they know what he did was wrong more than the adults. People actually believe in this country that someone young with money all of sudden is going to be a better person because they are free to do whatever they choose? Are you kidding? A youngster at the height of the most rebellious time of his/her life, really? A kid who grew up in the BoatRock projects by himself as a child? really? And no matter how many times we’re proven incorrect, we still act surprised and say shame on them? This whole situation and listening to sportstalk radio and reading these blogs over the last couple of years has me really dissapointed in all of us, including myself for as much as I complain about it, sometimes its hard not to get caught up in those same emotions especially when you have hateful people (like my personal ajc blog stalker) who love nothing more than to get someone else riled up over someone 90% of us have NEVER come in contact with. I wish God had that affect on us for real, instead of making false idols out the famous and rich. Until that happens, we will all continue to be how does the Bible say “rubbernecking” and as mentally barbariac as the animals Vick and his cohorts mistreated. The brother was wrong, he will pay, but for some to sit here and cheer in hate over it is IMO as bad as what Vick did. Do you think that way when in church? When you’re asking God to forgive you. Remember in HIS eyes are sins are equal. Two wrongs don’t make it right, and we need to just all move on and stop dwelling on it and shooting barbs at each other over this. Life is too short, just ask Sean Taylor. (R.I.P.)

By onlycritter

December 10, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

My question is when will Jesse, Al, et. Al start calling for the removal of the judge? Mr. Vick tried to maintain his “friendships” while in the glare of the public spotlight. It is a shame that such a great role model to young black men had to become another statistic.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

OK, this is making my head hurt. I’ll just leave this blog and let you idiots cry about some fool who obviously cared nothing for you. Michael Vick never gave a damn about us, and you want to repay him with kindness? You people are sickening. This is what you teach your kids? That you can do something against the law, but other people do worse stuff, so it doesn’t matter? I guess that’s why in 10 years your kids will be mugging me with a knife, not a gun. Hey, stabbing someone isn’t as bad as shooting them, right?

By Gwinnett Dad

December 10, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

The blind ignorance of some of the posters on this blog is really something. I wouldn’t have believed this many Atlanta Falcon fans could be this arrogant and ignorant. MV’s lies over the years showed he didn’t give a damn about anybody, and he repeatedly displayed nothing but self-centered contempt for common decency. He pleaded GUILTY, because a trial would have revealed what more about his crimes, and would have resulted in far more time behind bars. Too bad so many Falcon fans not only don’t have a clue, they also don’t have any class. Their hatreds betray the dreams of Martin Luther King, and show that the color of their skin is far more important to them than the content of their character.

By Russ

December 10, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

GO THRASHERS!!!!!

By Dawg4Life

December 10, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

People seem to forget that this case isn’t just about the actual fighting of the dogs. It is also about the excecution of dogs, and the manner in which it was done. There was also the transportation across state lines to conduct these fights. He was also gambling on the fights as well, so this stretches far beyond just the dog fighting. I actually think that the sentence was a bit light considering Vick’s involvement in this whole deal, especially since the maximum sentence is 5 years. Having said that, I have been a Vick fan ever since he was at VT, and it is really sad to see his career take a nose dive like this. But, he did it to himself….

By Mark

December 10, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Chris

The accurate defination of the word “hater” is anyone who is white and is not pro Vick.

By Clayton Bigsby

December 10, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

I agree ConservativeDem

Just to add to that. These people condemning M.Vick are the same idiots that spend $4000 on a Hannah Montana ticket. Where is the love for man? Delusional society.

By GP

December 10, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Did Ray Lewis get off because he was black? If not, how can you say Michael Vick went to jail because he was black? You simply can’t have it both ways. However, it does make me wonder how Mr. Lewis can be so intimately and obviously involved in killing another human and not go to jail, while a man who killed animals is sentenced to 23 months? Priority issues, anyone?

By Jimmy

December 10, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

A black life means nothing in America? Y’all shoot each other every day, then blame us.

By caz1158

December 10, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

The Race Card being used by both sides is almost childlike. The man admitted to the crimes that he was accused of.And now he is doing the time for said crimes (all felonies by the way). If you think Tom Brady,Peyton Manning,or even Tom Cruise would have gotten any less ur kidding yourself. And for those who are celebrating his downfall you are no better. Race problems start because of ignorance, and I can see plenty of evidence of it here!!!!

By Marie

December 10, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

This sentence is outrageous and only proves that justice takes a vacation when the American people sensibilities are outraged.

Nothing Michael Vick or his co-defendants have done in anyway has infringed on the Constitutional rights of an individual. Nor has his actions denied any individual their rights to life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness or their personal property.

And for a first time offender to receive this much time is a travesty of justice. The fact that Michael Vick failed a drug test or didn’t admit to his role in killing dogs is irrelevant. Killing a dog is not a federal crime. And if his smoking of marijuana was such a big deal why didn’t Judge Hudson have him incarcerated immediately upon learning of this infraction instead of letting him voluntarily turn himself in some 2 months later?

In addition, Michael Vick has given close to $1 million to care for the remaining animals. He also must pay the normal fine associated with this crime $250K and has agreed to give the government the proceeds from the sale of that VA home ($450K) as part of his plea agreement. That is almost $2 million this man had paid and that still isn’t enough.

For the federal government to require a king’s ransom for this offense and ignore the fact that this man will not be able to earn a living for three years and he has 3 children to support is absolutely despicable. It gives the impression that the government considers the care, feeding, and welfare of dogs to be more important than the health and welfare of 3 African-American children.

And I still have remaining questions and lingering doubts about this case.
[1] WHO are these “unknown” individuals that were driving from various parts of America to participate in dogfighting on Vick’s property? They committed the same crimes as Vick, but, yet there have been no additional indictments by the federal government as a result of this case. And yet the government accepted as a STATEMENT OF FACT that an unknown individual drove from Florida and another unknown one from Alabama to have a dogfight on Vick’s property. They can tell you the name of dogs, how much was betted on the outcome, where these individuals came from, but they don’t the name of the person. That defies logic. NO UNKNOWN individual is simply showing up on Vick’s property to engage in dogfighting.

[2] Who would Vick trust enough to allow them to conduct their dogfighting sessions on his property? Other NFL players perhaps.

[3] Why was there only ONE aggressive dog found among the 44 dogs removed from Vick’s property? These animals have been thoroughly examined by vets and other animal experts and the majority have been deemed adoptable because they show no signs of aggression toward other dogs or people. How can a person run a dogfighting operation with dogs that don’t fight?

And I could go on and on. What a sad, sad day for justice in America; our founding fathers have to be rolling in their graves.

By Matt

December 10, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

The sentance is harsh but justified. He will probably only serve 8 months and be released early for good behavior.

By Concerned

December 10, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Glad he is in jail and the saga is over. I all likelyhood, if he spent more time working on becoming a better quarterback instead of funding and focusing on his dog fighting operation, he would be preparing to play new Orleans and cashing another game check. I agree his fame had an impact on sentacing. I aso agree that hsi actions while awaiting sentaceing show a person who didn’t appreciate the gravity of the charges. He rots for 2 years misses a 3rd because he is released too late for the 2009 season. I can’t see any team risking the public opinion backlash to sign a QB that never proved he could win and has been out fo the elge a minimun 3 years and moist likely 4. The skillset will rot in jail.

By Mike

December 10, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t see many common sense comments in this column. Mike is guilty by does not deserve this kind of punishment. Murders get less and not a one of you have a word to say. He is in financial ruin and has paid far more than the 23 months sentence. The judge is using the wrong case to make an example.

By Concerned

December 10, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Glad he is in jail and the saga is over. I all likelyhood, if he spent more time working on becoming a better quarterback instead of funding and focusing on his dog fighting operation, he would be preparing to play new Orleans and cashing another game check. I agree his fame had an impact on sentacing. I aso agree that hsi actions while awaiting sentaceing show a person who didn’t appreciate the gravity of the charges. He rots for 2 years misses a 3rd because he is released too late for the 2009 season. I can’t see any team risking the public opinion backlash to sign a QB that never proved he could win and has been out fo the elge a minimun 3 years and moist likely 4. The skillset will rot in jail.

By Wanda

December 10, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

I think the punishment was too harsh and the media including the AJC has given way too much coverage in this whole mess. We are still fighting in a WAR but people want to protest about some dogfighting . PLEASE!!! I wasn’t a Michael Vick supporter til this news came out and I have to say it if he wasn’t black we would not even been hearing or knowing all that has been covered about all of this. Hate if you want but I am a Black Woman and the reality is Michael Vick has been given a very harsh sentence just because of his color. He pleaded guilty but the Judge says he hasn’t taken full responsibilty for his part. What the *k are you kidding me, he pleaded guilty what more do you people want. They were just dogs!!!For all you haters please don’t throw your hatred at my comments. It’s way it is.

By Nate

December 10, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

For all of you people who don’t have your facts straight..Danny Heatley was DRUNK when he killed his friend…sorry not an accident people…anybody else it would’ve been vehicular homicide/manslaughter…but I guess he gets off because it wasn’t a dog…

By rjp

December 10, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

who cares! get the bum off the front page and get on with real news.

By janet

December 10, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

I am white, I think if he was white he would have come out of this alot better. For some of you people, we all make mistakes and alot never get caught. I don’t think we should be so quick to run our mouths about others. How many people smoke and never have got caught? I would guess alot. If you have a life of your own you wouldn’t be so worried about his.

By ann

December 10, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

First off, do any of you people even know how long murderers and rapist go to jail for? Look up the information before you start going off at the mouth. You look like an idiot otherwise.

By j.leblanc

December 10, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

No dogs are mean by nature. It’s the people that touture and fight animals that make the animals mean. Shame on you Vick. An eye for an eye! 23 month…much to short a sentence.

By Wendy

December 10, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

The punisment does not fit the crime. This is a sad day for this young man. Where is your compassion for a human being? I know that I will continue to pray for this young man and I am saddes that it came down to this.

By mvfan

December 10, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Know wy Mike Vick went to prison and Ray Lewis didn’t? It’s because Ray was accused of killing two Black men. Michael was accused of killing dogs. Get my drift?

By harold

December 10, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

You know it’s really a shame. They made an example out a black man again. “Hello young black men, wake up.” What he did was dumb and cruel, but for the feds to prosecute this with such vigor when in the south and virginia especially, blacks were treated like this and worse in the very recent past no less and the government fed, state, local know who the people are, where they are, and will never prosecute them. What happened to Vick is as American as apple pie when it comes to black justice.

By Marsha

December 10, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

I think that if Vick is serving time, then the Greyhound Racing Tracks should be on trial as well. They killed about 650,000 dogs in the 90s and no one says a thing about this. Fair treatment to all!

By Supe

December 10, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter what we think. He plead, he was sentenced in a court of law. Justice was served. End of story. Let it go.

By Baron

December 10, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Vick got the worst legal advice ever. Any idiot who hires his lawyer deserves what Vick got. Billy lets the FBI grill his client for 5 hours until he “breaks down” then tells the press about it. Great move. He then “negotiates” a plea agreement that ends Vick’s career. Great move. Vick should have fought this tooth and nail. Phil Spector shot & killed a woman in his home, with his own gun and has not served a week in jail. If Vick had hired Roy Black, the case would go to trial, he would have beat it and been ready for next season. The “Dream Team” this was not!!

By james c

December 10, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

i think he should have gotten a lighter sentence im at school and i just found out what he waz sentenced im sooo mad

By RamblinLonghorn

December 10, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

He was convicted for running an interstate gambling operation. They gambled on dog fights, but that’s the law he broke that got him this sentences. The value of human life versus dog life plays no factor here, as someone who had a interstate poker game would face the same repercussions.

The state charges will more than likely deal with cruelty to animal charges. Save your ignorant vitriol for their decision.

By John C. Smith

December 10, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

One I think the sentence is to unjust when you compare it to the other defendants in the case. I don’t have a problem with the lenght, I think it is about right as long as every one gets the same. Animal abuse is animal abuse. I hope this will server notice to all that choose this path. I would also hope the Justice System will do the same for all other, who are convicted of animal abuse.

To me it just a witch hunt, unless you can prove to me statistically of the conviction of the people guily of dog fighting or animal cruelty.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

If you people think that him pleading guilty means that he has accepted responsibility for his actions, you’re all a bunch of tards. He only plead guilty because he was busted and there was no way out. He lied to the Commish, he lied to Blank, he lied to McKay, he lied to you, he lied to me, he lied to everyone. Now he’s gonna pay for his actions.

By Dog Fighting No More

December 10, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

Thank goodness, there will be no more dogfighting! What…?….You mean that there is still dogfighting going on even though Mike Vick has been sentenced. Surely you jest!!! Who is continuing to sponsor this dogfighting? Does the government know about these other people? Does PETA know that dogfighting continues? Does PETA even care?

By TPM

December 10, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

I have no problem with people thinking that Michael Vick is serving too much time. But please be consistent and fight for those 2 kids who got 10 years for microwaving the puppy. Don’t support Michael Vick just because he is a public figure.

By Pat

December 10, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Wow thats harsh. All other crimes have first time offenders who received much lower sentence or no time at all. For some dogs!!!!!!!, dont get me wrong, what he did was wrong and I am dog owner but it does not deserve that much time.

I wonder how you explain this one to the creater and how you ask for forgiveness for this one. Whats your crime, kill some dogs.

By Gspot

December 10, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

ConservativeDem: This may come as a surprise to you, but you don’t actually get to choose which laws should or should not be on the books. There is a process in place for that and however flawed it is, it is certainly better than letting someone of your limited intellect make those decisions for us all. However, we are very grateful that you ARE willing to let us all know which laws should and should not be valid.

By Ann

December 10, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

Hey Marie,

I feel sorry for you. “Killing a dog is not a federal crime.” Umm darling, yes it is. Look it up. That dirtbag got what he deserved. Did he get the max sentence? NO. So get off your high horse. I wish I could live in your world. Commit a crime and not have to be held accountable.

By Rich

December 10, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

Ivy League Professor gets 7 years after bashing his wife’s brains in, two top Enron execs get 36 and 18 mos after ruining 1000’s of lives and retirements and Vick gets 23 mos for killing 2 dogs. That is totally unfair and stupid. ( mos and 3 years community service would have been appropriate and beneficial to all. Now my tax money gets eaten up taking care of a dog killer for the next 2 years. Good job Judge.

By Tanielle

December 10, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

** I think that everyone needs to stop playing the race card, the sports card, and every other card. I look at the children that got o my school and how they look up to Mike Vick. We are always talking about how we want good role models for our younger generation (because some of the parents aren’t doing a very good job at being role models). But look at what they have to look up to. I loved Mike Vick as an athlete. He was very talented and no one can take that away from him. I just think that if our country is going to have any kind of positive role models (such as Barack Obama, U.S President 08) they need to also see the consequences that come with their actions. Everyone keeps saying that they have seen murderers and rapists get less time than he did, but what about all of the 50,000 other people that did get more time than he did!?!?!?!?

One last thing, I keep seeing all these people saying how they are ready to move on from all of this, but you keep responding. I’m not understanding that concept, Either you want to move on or not!!!**

By Lil E

December 10, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

I don’t think the actual sentencing was so bad. The injustice comes in when PETA flakes on taking care of the remaining dogs. Then the federal government applying ridiculous price tags to take care of these dogs. Essentially, they are trying to take his money because they don’t know what’s NFL money or what’s dogfighting money. What if he can’t get back in the NFL, though ? He won’t have any kind of safety net because the government is using Vick’s money to fund Bush’s war. It’s a sad reality..

By Andy

December 10, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Why do some of you fools refer to 5 full years of not only funding but participating in the torture and killing of domesticated animals simply as a mistake?

A mistake is killing or severely injuring the family dog because in moment of rage you kicked it across the room for chewing a hole in your new couch.

When someone breaks several federal laws repeatedly over the course of 5 years only to finally stop breaking these laws because he was caught is not a victim. He’s simply another serial number in the Federal Prison System.

Personally, I was hoping he would get 30 months but I’ll still have a Merry Christmas knowing he only received 23 months.

By It is What it is!!!

December 10, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

I agree to what the one person spoke on regarding the death of the Hocky Player….getting probabtion, and Vick being involved with the dog fighting and killing…getting sentenced. I honestly believe there should have been a sentence for Vick, I also believe there should be a sentence for manslaughter.

Do I think color comes in to play? Of course I do.

By dustoff917

December 10, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

First off everyone lets leave the racial issue and football hero out of this, here is an educated man, who made a lot of money, broke the law and got caught.

Wake up people, he broke the law, got caught, got convicted and thats the end of the story.

I guess you bleeding heart liberals and football nuts would see it different if he would have been an illegal!

Hopefully he will learn from his mistakes and become a better person in the future.

By Kyle

December 10, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

To me Vick got an appropriate sentence. Considering he bankrolled the operation and his co-defendants who copped pleas first got 18 and 21 months, it stood to reason he’d get a longer sentence.

If anything he got off light with only 23 months out of a possible 5 years.

By JOESMOE

December 10, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

GOOD RIDDANCE. WHAT A PIECE OF CRAP!!

By DeltaGirl82

December 10, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

The only thing Michael Vick needs to do is to keep his head up and remember to keep GOD first in his life, nothing else matters at this point, not even what people may think about him. We all fall down, but we can all get up.

You will always be my favorite QB. Luv Ya Mike!

By Jeremy

December 10, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

I really gets on my nerves that this is the main issue that the country is concerned about. Even though cruelty to animals is important let us be mindful that thousands of our troops are still being killed overseas in a war we still have no clear explanation over. Also, why does it seem like these protestors are more concerned about dogs than children within our own city who are constantly murdered by their own peers. Especially, when corporate executives, who are friends with the crooks in the White House constantly misuse funds that could eliminate our debt for their own personal self-interest. It is too much other pertinent issues going on to be worried about MICHAEL VICK!!!

By afan4ever

December 10, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

I knew Vick would receive more time. The judge had already set the tone for the other guys already sentenced. I think the punishment is harsh; however, I hope when he is released he will have a chance to enter back into the NFL. However, I can see the NFL commissioner deciding to ban him altogether which would truly be an injustice. Also, if he was sentenced to do Federal time he will more than likely be sentenced to do state time which I hope won’t be the case. 23 months is enough and Virginia needs to announce his sentence as “time served”. Vick, I’m sorry this happened to you but while you are away PLEASE, “get your mind right” and come out a better person. Learn from this experience and stay out of trouble. I WILL BE A FAN OF WHATEVER TEAM DECIDES TO GIVE YOU A SECOND CHANCE! SEE YOU IN 2009/2010!!

By You got to be Kidding

December 10, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

I thing Vick needs to fire his lawyers and get T.I. lawyers!!!!

By Jimbob

December 10, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

I agree w/K concerning extremely serious crimes by politicians that go unpunished. However, Vick comitted a felony and deserves time. It’s just that those politicians deserve time too!

By afan4ever

December 10, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

I knew Vick would receive more time. The judge had already set the tone for the other guys already sentenced. I think the punishment is harsh; however, I hope when he is released he will have a chance to enter back into the NFL. However, I can see the NFL commissioner deciding to ban him altogether which would truly be an injustice. Also, if he was sentenced to do Federal time he will more than likely be sentenced to do state time which I hope won’t be the case. 23 months is enough and Virginia needs to announce his sentence as “time served”. Vick, I’m sorry this happened to you but while you are away PLEASE, “get your mind right” and come out a better person. Learn from this experience and stay out of trouble. I WILL BE A FAN OF WHATEVER TEAM DECIDES TO GIVE YOU A SECOND CHANCE! SEE YOU IN 2009/2010!!

By Durwood

December 10, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

We kill babies before they are born and sentence men to prison for fighting dogs. Welcome to confusion USA.

By Snook

December 10, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

If you idiots think the sentence is SOOO harsh, then why don’t you get off your butt and try to change the sentencing guidelines?

Instead of complaining about life, go DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.

By Lee

December 10, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Darrell Caldwell, a Black former Mays High School Coach admits during a local TV interview to having SEX with a Black 17 year old Mays High School female student. Caldwell’s punishment for this predatory abusive deed was a thirty day suspension by Georgia Education Department POST…however in our society it appears that abusing animals that just happen to be the property of the abuser merits 23 months of incarceration. Animal Rights probably trumps the Rights of Black Female Teens.

By Paul

December 10, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

This comment goes out to everyone on this board who wants to tear each other down; take a look at the posting by J. Sewell at 12:01. This is a person who doesn’t want to tear anyone down no matter what their race is. He/She has their own opinion and doesn’t feel the need to call names or insult anyone else to be heard; more people on this blog need to follow her/his example. Too many people want to use insults to cover up their bigotry (yes, bigotry can be black on white and white on black). Thank you J. Sewell for allowing me to end my reading of this blog on a positive note.

By Sick

December 10, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

I understand the dogfighting, we have seen where someone has been killed and the murderer gets of free (O.J., Robert Blake, slave catchers, just to name a few), but to be sentenced 23 months for dogfighting, or bankrolling or whatever, you have got to be kidding me. PETA, can’t have it both ways, you want to kill the pitbulls for mauling children or any adult, but you want to sentence a human being for letting them maul (pitbulls) each other. You people (Sue, Elizabeth) are such hypocrites, it is unreal. WAKE UP BLACK MEN, THEY ARE TAKING EVERYTHING THAT YOU HAVE (Jealousy is B——)

By David Lee

December 10, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

So this is George Bush’s fault, the pit bull breed (they deserve to die), and the justice system getting even for the Duke Lacrosse case. Please go see a therapist or a life coach to determine if you might be beyond help.

By tanya

December 10, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Michael made a mistake. If he is remorseful from the heart, The NFL and society should give him a second chance. You don’t throw a person away forever over one mistake…

By Mike

December 10, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

Michael who? Oh I get it, it is as in who cares. Vick is yesterday’s news.

By sonja

December 10, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

First of all, I don’t condone Michael Vick’s behavior. It was very wrong. However, this sentence was too harsh, and this country values dogs lives more than children and especially african american lives. A black woman can get raped, where is the outrage! Where is Peta then? Oh, that’s right they are a animal rights organization. What a about a peoples rights organization. Where is the media when it comes to Megan Williams? Where is the outrage! Michael Vick was wrong, but two years! Cmom, now child molesters get less time. People in some parts of asia kill eat dogs! We eat pigs. But, in some countries and religions, they don’t eat pig! Where is the outrage there Peta! CEO’S of grocery stores and restaurants should be locked up according to you. And, if Michael Vick had taken the Falcons to the superbowl, none of this would be happening. It takes a team, not one player. Seems a lot is forgiven when there is a winning team involved. High school teams, college teams, even if they are accused of rape. No one can believe the all american team could commit a crime. NO! unless it’s a black man, then he’s a thug!

By Voice of Reason

December 10, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

He brought this on himself, so I don’t have any sympathy for him. And Shirley, Jesse and the rest of the flock need to stop writing letters to get people off, or lighter terms when it is CLEAR they messed up! It’s embarassing to our race. Hopefully Vick will think about his hoodrat stupidity, grow up and become a real man for the future. I really don’t care if he plays again, we weren’t winning with him anyway.

By rico

December 10, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

23 months for dog fighting is CRAZY! Dog fighting is wrong and inhumane, however it does not warrant 23 months in jail.

The only reason he received 23 months is because he is Mike Vick, if I had committed the same crime my punishment would not have been so harsh.

His friends received less time and they have prior records. Harsh punishment for a 1st offense.

The judge knows that Mike was playing football and that his main residence was in Atlanta, so he may not be as involved as the others who lived in VA.

By charles

December 10, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

Vick is an example of a individual who cannot behave by the norms of our society (a sociopath). Would it suprise anyone if he also starts fires and wets the bed? These individuals may learn to look and act normal but they do not “reform” or become normal.

By Roni

December 10, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

I think 23 mths is completely ridiculous for the offense. He should have been sentenced for either community service, paying for the treatment of those dogs or the animal shelter but prison time is just too much. They are making such a big deal out of this situation. Yes, I understand that dogs need attention too and the dogfights were out of line but the punishment Vick got is just not fair.

By Shirley

December 10, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

I think it is such a shame that this has become a racial issue. It is. A white woman KILLS her preacher husband and gets 60 days as a patient in a mental institution. Did the punishment fit the crime? Will someone please tell me what crime did Michael Vick commit? Dog fighting is practiced everyday by WHITE people. I guess it is not a crime when it is committed by white people, but it is a crime when it is committed by a black person.

Please leave Michael Vick alone. You have tried to destroy him, however, I feel he will make a comeback!

By Clark

December 10, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

How many of these pitbulls and rottweilers kill little kids every year?

I’m no fan of Vick, but I don’t see the OUTRAGE when a child is killed by one of these beasts. However, there seems to be more outrage at the treatment and deaths of these animals.

These dogs are not labs, german shepards, collie’s, poodles, etc. they are savage killing machines. They should be banned.

By afan4ever

December 10, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

One more thing. Stop calling people “thugs”. If Vick’s a thug then so is everyone else who commits a crime (i.e. Danny Heatly, Patrick Kearney). Certain things for some people are swept under the rug. Why not sweep Vick’s error under the rug as well and allow him to continue his career? Football is his lifeline (just like Heatly’s lifeline is hockey). If you take football away from Vick how do you expect for him to make a living? If the hockey league can have sympathy for Heatly and give him a chance, why can’t the NFL do the same for Vick?

By Tom Davis

December 10, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

To Marie: you are a perfect example in which a little knowledge of law is a dangerous thing. Please do not sit for the bar exam you will fail miserably. Your analysis leads to paralysis.

By sandra bolton

December 10, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Vick should have gotten any jail time for 1st offense, something is wrong when people are outrage about killing or abusing animal but not HUMANS, with souls, you have people killing their innocent children and getting off with insanity but Vick should be sent to prison come on something is wrong with the judical system, when you get more time for killing a animal than killing a human, this kind of sentencing will not stop until the end of time. I am not a animal lover, nor would I kill or abuse an animal but I sure would not value their life before HUMAN life. I could have understood Vick getting a fine and maybe probation. Then if he did that again jail time. I don’t know Vick but I sympathize with him and hate he made a bad, stupid choice but just about everyone in this world make mistakes.

By Renee

December 10, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

For all of these “so-called” animal lovers, how many DEER heads do you have hanging in your home!!! PLEASE! Quit acting like you’re any different from dog fighters!! You kill animals and call it a sport??? Vick will rise and mature from this mistake and will play in the NFL again. The sentence is too harsh and the judge was only out to prove a point.

By Jim

December 10, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Did Vick admit to committing a crime? Did he know what he was doing was wrong? Did he fail a drug test after the judge told him he would be tested while awaiting his sentencing?

Anyone who makes excuses for answering “Yes” to those questions can go bury their racist head in the sand with Marie and Wanda.

He did the crime, now he’ll do his time. Hopefully he has pulled himself together by the time he gets out and maybe gets a chance to redeem himself in the NFL and society. Only time will tell if his actions will speak louder than his words because right now it’s been all talk and no action from Vick.

By Real person

December 10, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Thug is an attitude/lifestyle choice, it is not determined by the color of your skin.

And you want to talk about harsh, my son got 10 years prison/parole and 5 years probation for a FIRST OFFENDER drug charge. He was 17 years old. Now that’s harsh. By the way, we are white.

By Matt Yoder

December 10, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

I feel sick! How can a man that had so much going for him throw it all away? Wanda, you and Vick both need the Lord in the worst kind of way! Mike for the fact that he is a chronic lier and a animal abuser and you for actually being defensive! You need a reality check sista! I hope that Mike will come to grips with himself in prison and come out a better man and have a successful career! Everybody, please pray for Mike and Wanda and all the people like her! God bless and GO FALCONS!

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 10, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

About 8 months too long.

They’re just dogs. Dogfighting should be a misdemeanor.

By Sherry

December 10, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

I will be praying for Vick and his family to get through this. All of you that are judging him, please remember that you will be judged in the end also. There’s no one in this world that has not done something that was wrong. Vick admited his wrong so why don’t the world give him a break and forgive him also. God has the last say so over everything.

By Dewaine

December 10, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

I think that Vick may very well get off early for good behavior but I really do not think that he will change. His skills will surely be eroded and he may still be marketable but he would still be a risky person to market. I do know, however, who will benefit from this the most. His cellmate should do a diary of Vick’s activities and sell his diary. He will wind up richer than Vick since Vick will no longer be such a valuable commodity.

By not enough

December 10, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

23 months isn’t enough the key question is will he be in shape to play when he gets out he should serve his time in a kennel

By Va

December 10, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

I love animals and believe that humans are responsible for protecting them. That being said, I also believe behavior has consequences and that you punish behavior, not people. If this sentence is in line with all others who are convicted of dog fighting, c** fighting, etc., then it is a fair punishment. If Michael Vick is being punished for who he is, and not just what he has done, it is wrong.

By EXHALE

December 10, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

PURCHASING AN AJC PAPER….50 CENTS

DONATING TO “PETA” SO THAT THEY CAN KILL MORE DOGS …………$100

TAKING CARE OF VICK’S REMAINING DOGS……………….OVER $900,000

READING THE AJC’S RACIST BLOGS…PRICELESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By very funny

December 10, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

It’s very funny how one race of people(white) tries to tell another race of people(black) about what is and isn’t racism. My question to the white establishment is when did you become an expert on racism? How can you fix your mouth to tell African-American(term “American” used loosely) on what is and isn’t racism when we’ve been experiencing the effects of racism for 400 plus years. How does that old saying goes, “until you walked a mile in my shoes,….”.

By Lee

December 10, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Several years ago an Atlanta Flames Hockey Player while driving drunk at speeds in excess of 100MPH on Lenox Road, a two laned congested residential street, fatally crashed his sports car which resulted in the death of a passenger in the sports car…this good Ole Boy was not charged with a single offense. The Blue-eyed athlete received a slap on the wrist from the local Business and Sports Communities as well as the Atlanta City Mis-Justice System and was allowed to return to his native Canada without even a hint of punishment or legal responsibility. If only VICK was a Blue eyed Athlete, he would have been afforded the same preferential treatment.

By la

December 10, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Wow the Federal Government must be broke because of the war so they go after black athletes,black pastors and othe black celebrities for money to clean up their mess. Wake up people

By nimbooda

December 10, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

To Wanda: the point is not that they were “just” dogs. How out of touch with humanity do you have to be to make a comment like that.

The point is the civilized sociey doesn’t want this type of behavior in a country that should be humanitarian and progressing. Yet we point the finger to the middle east, to Asia, to Africa for humanity horrors. Well, there are humanity horrors in own our country - including dogfighting and killing your dogs that lose. Your attitude towards this case reminds me why we are no different than these other countries.

Thank God for those who embrace humanity - who say no to breaking the law - who say no those who say, “I am above the law” and who say no to inhumane treatment of people and animals. This is not China. Dogs in this country are considered domestic and a pet animal. If you don’t like that, well you can move to China where the torture, butcher and eat dogs and skin them alive for their fur.

By whitey

December 10, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

I do have to say i am not shocked at the loyalty that people have to Vick. I guess he can do no wrong in some people eyes and do no right in others.

oh well, just one more mouth to feed in the pen.

and when you do get out of jail, i hope R. Godell never lets you strap on another pair of pads. Hell, even when you played for the Falcons you were a terrible qb….27th in the league in passing. sorry folks, but thats terrible (i know, i know…but he’s exciting to watch)…you know who says crap like that…people who cant pass.

Look at past super bowl winners….Peyton, Tom Brady, Ben Rothlisberger….none of them are “exciting to watch” but they can sure toss the pig around.

Maybe Mike should work on throwing a little while locked up.

Just a thought.

By Dee

December 10, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

I am amazed that people think this has ANYTHING to do with race! This has to do with lives… to some of you the life of a dog isn’t that important… However to many of us they are just as important as people and they are also another one of God’s creatuers. Anyone who feels that his sentence isn’t long enough needs to think about the mental and physical abuse caused to those dogs. He deserved much more time! Life for murder is 20 years. Lets just say it should be 1 year for a dog… he killed more than 1.8 dogs!
What he did was sick and cruel and quite frankly I think a shorter sentence would have been great if we could lock him up with some of the dogs he paid to have trained to fight! Now, I can’t see how anyone could think that is unfair…

By JB

December 10, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

All of you who are trying to make this a race issue are detracting from the real problems in our society.

Yes. Racism is a very real fact of our society. But trying to defend a man who has personally admitted hanging a dog is ridiculous. Pick the battles that really matter’s and maybe we will make some progress in our society.

By annbob

December 10, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

At least he has the integrity to admit his crime instead of flim-flaming his way out. He was gained a little respect for that.

By JUSTICE

December 10, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Dear Majorie Thomas I guess you kiss up to the master everyday you are the problem UNCLE TOM

By PETARULES

December 10, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

For those of you who write that “I know wife beaters and child molesters who got off with a lesser sentence”… You need to start hanging with a different circle of friends…It might change your perspective.

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

OK, some are saying his crime was gambling or betting on dogs. The fair thing to do is give him a sentence like they did Pete Rose for gambling and betting in baseball. Just don’t allow him to enter into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

By jean

December 10, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

What an absolute waste of time and money. This has been going on for years however, when a black started making money all of sudden it’s a crime. I remember knowing of this type of stuff back in the 50’s and the owners/promoters were all white. So it’s just another way for young black to learn, you can’t do what the white does and do it better because then it becomes a crime. All of the tx dollars wasted could very well have fed some hungry families there in atlanta. No, that money is lining the pockets of the white man. Black men open your eyes and investigate before you do something.

By sexy1977

December 10, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Is it fair to blame anyone for what happened to Micheal Vick besides Michael Vick? The white man, The Blue man, The purple man nor did the Green man do this to M.Vick. He did it to himself. I think that he should spend a year in jail just for being stupid.

By mp

December 10, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

The time fits the crime.

His bigger sentence and the one he so richly deserves is being so stupid that he put at risk EVERY SINGLE DAY OF HIS CAREER millions and millions, not to mention the waste of what I’ve heard is amazing talent. Someone who could see themselves so untouchable that they’d put all that on the line for brutal illegal “fun” should not have millions and millions or talent. He’s too stupid for both. The NFL should never take him back. Make him go play in Canada for 50 grand a year…and snow.

By cursive

December 10, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

People can make this about racism, animal abuse, whatever people want to blame it on. The BOTTOM LINE is that Vick did every single bit of this to himself. He made the decisions. He put up the money. He killed the dogs. He failed the drug test. HE DID IT ALL TO HIMSELF! Now whether or not the punishment was too harsh, dogs are more important than people, whatever you want to say… If Michael Vick had not done the wrong thing time after time, he wouldn’t be in jail. It is as simple as that. I hope he can open some other people’s eyes and get them to start making smarter choices. This is 100% HIS fault! He made his bed, now he has to sleep in it.

By la

December 10, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

When did dogs become apart of the constitution? I am proud to be African-Americans because America is going to be punished by the United Nations how they are treating other races of peopl. This is unjust, cruel and unusual punishment.

By Bob Carle

December 10, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Just Dogs??? My dog has alot more smarts than most of the Vick supporters that have posted comments…..

By atag

December 10, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

If you think this case is just about killing pitbulls - then you are mistaken. People like Mike Vick are the reason that little children end up getting mauled to death by pitbulls - because these dogs have been abused and trained to kill - so they become extremely dangerous animals. So for all of you who defend Mike Vick and his co-defendants - maybe you wouldn’t mind having an operation like theirs next door to your home - since according to you - what they did wasn’t a big deal. Dog fighting is a disgusting “sport” and is illegal for a reason.

By nimbooda

December 10, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

To afan4ever: It is one thing to acknowledge the wrong, forgive the person and support that they will change. It is another thing to hear a fanatic fan who doesn’t stand for anything but seeing their favorite athlete on the field regardless if they are a criminal or not. In your opinion, the sentence was too harsh but only because it will be longer for you to see Vick play. You could care less about him as a person and that you really want him to be a better man. All you care about is seeing him play football. Let’s face it, Vick’s fans don’t give a rat’s poop about him as a person.

By Chess

December 10, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Good point Clark

By Lee

December 10, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

ATTENTION!!! EVERYONE immediately BOYCOTT HOME DEPOT, THE FALCONS, AND THE GEORGIA AQUARIUM this should give BLANK and MARCUS something to ponder..

By One_more_Falcon_Fan

December 10, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Vick did the crime so he has to do the time. Ridiculous time if you ask me.

People please stop acting like race is not an issue. Just read the blogs. You have racial tensions on both sides. You have to be blind to not think race card and issues doesn’t exist. Just look around, we can kill deer and what not for sport and why? Why are they deemed more important than dogs? And why do we have ball players that beat there wives,being convicted of dui manslughter and they are still out playihg balls. But kill a dog and you are to get 2 years for a first time offense? And in the end do you just want him to pay for his crime with jail time or would it be more productive to use him and his fame to serve animal rights activists in curbing this ugly crime of dogfighting? I just don’t get it. One thing is for sure….maybe the AJC and Atlanta can finally put this crap behind us. Tired of hearing, reading and defending it. I hope he moves on with his life.

By Kiki

December 10, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Can someone please explain to me why it takes $986K to care for 53 dogs? I have worked and volunteered in shelters before, and let me tell you, they buy the cheapest crap possible for the animals. Why should people who adopt Vick’s dogs be given Vick’s own money to pay for the care of these dogs? I can understand feeding for and caring for the dogs until they have recovered, or even until they are adopted. (Why anyone would want to adopt these dogs is beyond me). But why should he be forced to continue to pay??? They are not his children!!!!! He should not have to pay dog support!!!!! That money would be better spent on Michael Vick’s children. Maybe they should set up a fund for their care since he will obviously be bankrupt soon!

And for all you animal lovers out there screaming he should get more time for killing dogs inhumanely, you should do some research on the treatment received by cows, chickens, pigs, and turkeys before they make it to our dinner tables. Hypocrites!!

By Sickened

December 10, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

How does Danny Heatly get traded to a new hockey franchise after killing his teammate while drinking and driving, but Michael Vick gets 2yrs for his involvement with dogs.

By Sick of PETA and Folks like them!

December 10, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

To Lee Thank you for your comments; none of these animal fanatics have the courage to respond to your statement!

By Brett

December 10, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Chris. Didn’t you not see all the PETA supporters protesting against him that gathered at the courthouse in Richmond everytime he had a court hearing, at the Falcons training complex and on various news channels and talk shows? They were constantly visible and involved to make sure he was fully prosecuted (persecuted). Moron.

By Ed

December 10, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

This is yet another reason why I don’t give a d**n about pro football. The vast majority of the players act like they can get away with anything and are looked up to for some reason I’ll never understand. I’ll stick with being a hockey fan - most of the NHL’s players are foreigners, so they’ll get deported if they get in trouble.

By Matt

December 10, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

I am sick of the aurgument that someone else that did a worse crime got off with less punishment. Just because they did not get the punishment they deserved does not mean Michael Vick should also not get what he deserves. If anything these people making this ridiculous argument should only say that those other people should have gotten tougher sentances and leave it at that.

By Jim P.

December 10, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

JB, dont bother….the guy thinks O.J. did’nt do it either.

By Disappointed

December 10, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Why in the world do we keep talking about the law…We all know that roughly 150 years ago “the law” considered black people 3/4 of a human being. We know that these laws were created to protect whiteness in America. Black people still aren’t considered bonafide citizens in the US let alone human beings. If we were, why did President Bush have to extend the voting rights act for another 25 years for black people to vote. Why can’t we vote outright without stipulations. The way things are going for black people in America it feels like we’re on our way back to slavery, only now it’s called jail….I’ll say it again White Supremacy Sucks

By nimbooda

December 10, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

To EXHALE: What a stupid comment. PETA did NOT breed the animals they rescued. There will always be rescued animals that will have to be HUMANELY put down BECAUSE of IDIOT dog owners. PETA is NOT responsible for the millions of unwanted dogs dumped or abused. PETA and other animal friendly organizations do what they can do to help as many animals as they can help. It amazes me how people have the nerve to complain about a HUMANE organization trying to do the right thing and CLEAN UP other peoples’ messes! Stop exhaling nonsense.

By cin

December 10, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Everybody needs to stop acting like they never did anything wrong. He that is without sin cast the first stone. I wonder how many of us have skeletons in our closet that haven’t come to the haven’t jumped out if this was just a regular person, there won’t be a big thing

But because he is famous in the NFL they are making a mockery out of this

You go Michael Vick keep you head up they are trying to break you and make an example out of you.

You are in my prayers.

Love Cin

By gruffgoat

December 10, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

You know how to tell when Vick was lying about his involvement in the Dog torture sport?

His mouth was moving.

Sick Vick should consider himself lucky.

And these kids holding up “poor dog killer” posters need a lecture on choosing appropriate role models. Step 1 might be to look outside of professional sports.

By Unclear

December 10, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

I agree with Lost in Amazement. We as a society need to revisit what is important. I am unclear as to how a man (Heatly) can take the life of another HUMAN BEING and get probation and Vick gets 23 months. Ok America keep in mind an animals life is far more valuable than a humans. We are sending a message to our youth that it is ok to drive drunk and kill someone as long as you are nice to all animals. Give me a break and all you animal rights activist need to get a clue.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

These analogies to hunting are absurd. You people are pathetic. If only it were legal to hunt humans…

By wheeljc

December 10, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Think that Vick would be wise to find a new occupation. If he could get his act together over the next 23 months, he might consider becoming a motivational speaker to kids in the ‘hood’ to encourage them not to go by the ‘way of Vick’.

A football team would be crazy to bring him on at 30! Vick is no Farve — he would merely be an accident looking for a safety or linebacker! Vick destroyed his football career — what a sad story to tell, but he might make a living telling it!

By TeacherMan

December 10, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

I encourage everyone to send Shirley Franklin an email similar to the one I sent, as pasted below:
Dear Ms. Franklin, I was embarrassed to read in today’s coverage of the Vick sentencing that you, along with other luminaries such as Hank Aaron and George Foreman, had sent a letter supporting Vick to Judge Hudson. I deem it a glaring error in judgement that you would have seen it wise to put your weight behind a person, regardless of his celebrity, before hearing (finally!) the truth behind everything. I’ll quote the story: “If you want me to admit it, I did it all. I did everything.” That was said by Vick only when he realized that the polygraph was not going his way. I think that the city of Atlanta and the state of Georgia deserve an apology from you for such an embarrassing display of judgement made by the representative figure of the state’s capital.

By DL

December 10, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

This is not just about fighting dogs.

This is about Michael Vick setting up an operation to breed, raise, and train fighting dogs and funding the whole illegal operation.

He deserves more time.

By vick is done

December 10, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

The man continually lied to the prosecutors when in the agreement he was supposed to comply with everything. He toked up even though he knew he was going to be tested. Not only did he, he did it the day before the test. If that isnt telling the gov’t I don’t care what you do I run things, I don’t know what is. Finally, the reasoning that he is a first time offender is awful considering he was breaking the law for 6 years! This wasn’t a random all of a sudden crime this was a criminal enterprise.

By jacqueline hopkins

December 10, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

you dont the right to judges him you are not god. when judgement come are you really to be judge are you perfect

By DDG

December 10, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

I just don’t understand our legal system, a man like Dan Heatley can go speeding through Buckhead and crash his car and kill one of his teammates and the reaction is not even close to what Vick has received. Heatley a one time member of the Atlanta Thrashers Killed his teammate and received probation, and a second chance. Where are we in society when a person can get more jail time for killing an animal than for killing a human being. I hate to bring up the racial issue, because I believe as african americans we blame race too frequently for our own misjudgements, but in regards to this situation, I never heard an outcry come out when Heatley killed his teammate by speeding through the town in his porsche. The mike vick case is a prime example of how african american athletes are treated differently than the caucasian counterparts, by both the media and the judicial system.

By stilldwnforMV7

December 10, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

First of all I would like to say that I am truly saddened as well as outraged by the chain of events surrounding the Michael Vick case. This is so bogus!!!! I agree that MV should be punished for his part in this but 23 mths!!!!!!! Are you serious???? I am one of his biggest supporters but I don’t think that the punishment fits the crime. I guess that he would have been better off being a Chester molester or drug dealer, huh? He would have gotten less time, that’s for sure! Oh, and I’m not even going to begin to pull out the race card bc I would be typing for the next several days! To put icing on the cake, the judge that sentenced him is an avid dog lover that happens to hunt as a sport……I’m sorry what???? Doesn’t hunting involve killing defenseless animals???? What is PETA saying about that??? Maybe now MV has learned that you can take everyone with you when you rise to the top. Anywho….I truly believe that MV7 regrets everything that has happened and I want him to keep his head up, serve his time, and get on with his life. He will come out a better man than he was when he went in. I hope that he does play again….football to me just isn’t the same without him. One thing that I do know is that he still has people that have his back and will continue too through it all!!!! I am still going to represent for you MV7!

By jmc

December 10, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Very Funny - so that would make you over 400 years old huh? Your right, your post was not only stupid but Very Funny.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Annbob, did you really just say, “At least he has the integrity to admit his crime instead of flim-flaming his way out. He was gained a little respect for that”?

Integrity? The man lied to the Commish, to his employer (Blank), to his boss (McKay), to his teammates, to you and to me. He did not “admit” his guilt. He got busted and had no way out. They had proof against him. So he did not “admit” anything. You are an absolute moron.

By wheeljc

December 10, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Think that the thing that caused the judge to really get tough was the fact that Vick was smoking dope while out on bond. Race did not make him do that! That really bordered on being stupid! Makes one wonder if he had been doing a bit of dope in Miami doesn’t it?? His football days are over — just like Ricky Williams!

By Billy

December 10, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

23 months for killing dogs is harsh, but not enough time for being stupid. Maybe, after these athlets have bought all their toys and don’t know what else to do with their money, they might consider sending their relatives to school, in some cases, breaking the chain of poverty in some families.

By very funny 2

December 10, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

It’s very funny how one race of people(black) tries to tell another race of people(white) about what is and isn’t racism. My question to the black establishment is when did you become an expert on racism from blacks to whites? How can you fix your mouth to tell Americans on what is and isn’t racism when we’ve been experiencing the effects of racism for thousands of years in Africa and now America. How does that old saying goes, “until you walked a mile in my shoes,….”.

By mike mead

December 10, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

Poor Mike Vick…. It was others who “made” him start this operation. It was OTHERS who were doing wrong on HIS property. He didn’t know ANYTHING about it. He lied to Blank, to the Feds and to the NFL commissioner. He stood on the steps of the courthouse and looked forward to “clearing his good name”. When backed into a corner, then and ONLY THEN, did he admit responsibility. Then after appearing before a judge and entering his guilty plea, he was warned to stay out of ANY further trouble before his sentencing date ( today ) He then apologized to everyone on TV and said he had become “born again” and found God. He asked for our forgiveness. Then, 2 months later he fails a drug test?? Are you kidding me? Now, all his supporters want us to feel sorry for him. I only hope that kids remember this story, and this point. All of us are accountable for or actions. Honesty and character are two traits Vick has never had.

By c. curry

December 10, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

conVick got off easy…a slap on the wrist.

In June of this year, a judge in Richmond Circuit Court imposed a four-year prison sentence and $20,000 in fines on Stacey Albert Miller as a convicted dogfighter. Why sould conVick get any less?

Nothing that conVick has lost up until today, was due to the law. All of his fame, money, NFL career, sponsors, reputation - all lost by his own hand.

Today, he received his sentence from our legal system for the Federal charges against him.

The State of VA has a trial date set for April 2008 where he faces 2 counts - EACH having “up to 5 years” in prison.

The NFL has yet to impose their “final” decision.

I don’t think he should ever be allowed to play in the NFL again!

By GDR

December 10, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

I feel he was given way too much time. The women in Tenn that Killed her husband in cold blood only got 6 months! What is the world coming too???

By Chris

December 10, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Um, inquisitive, Pete Rose served jail time. Nice try though, smart guy.

And like Vick would ever have a chance to make the NFL Hall of Fame. Pete Rose led all of baseball in career hits and singles. Vick runs really fast. Not exactly much of a parallel there.

By aw

December 10, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

So all of you who are media-lynchers, racist, ignorant, non-forgiving and judgmental of human beings, remember thou shalt not judge unless you also be judged. All of you self-proclaimed prosecutors, judges, self-righteous carnal opinionators, and most of all, Un-Godly individuals that write these horrible comments about this young man, really need to search your own souls and be accountable for yourselves. I am sure that you can find some horrible and evil things that you have done in your lives that you have had to ask for forgiveness for. We all need to be praying for Mr. Vick versus uttering words of evil about him. I pray for him and his family that they may find strength in Jesus Christ the Son of God. I pray that Mr. Vick repent and ask for forgiveness for his sins and make a covenant with the one who really matters and that is God Almighty. We all need to build our treasures in heaven and not upon the earth.

Thanks, A.W.

By tlk

December 10, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

A good friend of mine’s son lost control of his car on a dark rainy night and it ended the life of his new wife and her brother. He served 3 years in prison for this accident. Oh yeah, they were all white. What Vick did may not have killed anyone but it wasn’t an accident either. If being white made you immune to prison time, why are the prison’s full of white offenders?

By Jazz

December 10, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Since when do we send 1st time offenders to jail, and not give them probation? I think this is a sick society where people treasure dogs more than human being lives. I think it is an injustice that a white celebrity who is a repeat offender can get behind the wheel of a car drunk and endanger human lives, but only get 1 day or 2 weeks in jail. People can try and deny it, but racism is unfortunately alive today. There hasn’t been a white celebrity who has committed a crime punished with the intense severity as Vick.

(Example from recent news) White Celebs: Sutherland – 48 days, Hilton – 3 weeks, Richie – 1 night, Lohan – not sentenced.

Black Celebs: Kim – 1 year, Brown – 1 year, Vick - 2 years.

Do you see a pattern?

There is a double standard in America. One day we shall overcome because we are ALL GOD’s children!

By Beautiful Black People

December 10, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Hmmmmmm this is interesting. America has made abortions legal…..but dog fighting illegal. Treat Black folk terrible for 400 years do every thing under the sun to our ancestors. But a dog has more rights than Black people and a dogs life is perceived to be more valuable than our Black people who are dying across the country. Shame on America. Love to tear ya down when you flying high.

By Moe Dirty

December 10, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

We all commit crimes when we judge people.Vick will be fine as long as he repents to God and ask for forgiveness he have no worries.God is in control of this world.NotMan!

By leroy

December 10, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

“If you want me to admit it, I did it all. I did everything.” — What defense attorney Billy Martin says Vick tearfully confessed after a five-hour interrogation.

i bet he converts to islam

By Que Dollars

December 10, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

WOW They were/are only dogs! But at the same time, Vick was tripping for even associating with anything that frivolous, I mean come on dog fighting and you’re making Millions. Therefore, I can only feel sorry for all the youngsters that looked up to him.

Oh yeah I am a 28 year old black man btw!!

Chuuch!!

By josh

December 10, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

at least he kept it real.

By who vicktim

December 10, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

I think our judicial system has failed the people. When the judge is an dog lover how can you recieve a fair trial? I am not say Mike was right in actions, but anytime a animal has right like that is sad for all human society. Brett Favre and others in professional sports hunted deers that right? I think there is to much racism from the media to judicial system. He got what desevered for lying but is worth taking his livehood? Would this happen to Brett Favre, Peyton Manning(who had is own battle with the law coming out Tennessee with harassment), or any other white athlete? Jamal Lewis got a slap on the wrist with battle the feds that involved drugs. A dogfight! A dogfight! All of this about money. The highest paid black QB who had been ridiculed in the sports media beacause he wasn’t the tradition QB. This is an opportunity to destroyed another black athlete but Mick did have aprt in this fall. Racism is the deciding factor in the eventuality. I am dissappointed in the leader of governments.

By B. J.

December 10, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

PETA is a bunch of HIPOCRITES. They kill thousands of dogs every year (do the research). What is the difference between Vick killing dogs and PETA? I see people run over dogs everyday and never stop.

This is clearly a case of discrimination against black athletes who make a lot of money.

He who is without sin CAST the first stone.

By T-Money

December 10, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

To la:

That is just about the dumbest comment I have ever heard. Vick isn’t paying a cent to the government, neither is his pastor, or other black celebrities, save for taxes. Vick is going to jail, meaning we have to pay to house and feed him. When he pays a fine, then your comment makes sense.

The money Vick is losing is going to The Falcons, who are not associated with the government (Though I’m waiting for the Georgia Dome to be declared a disaster area).

By Gumz B. Blu

December 10, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Now we’re comparing deer hunters to dogfighting?? Keep in mind, hunters usually eat the animals that they kill. Not too terribly different from the steak or hamburger on your plate ( someone’s got to kill it then grill it ). I don’t think Michael or his posse’ ate any of the dogs that they drowned, electrocuted etc.

By steve

December 10, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

I think this sentence was fair in that it will no doubt draw attention to all the other illegal dog fighting that we know is going on. The greater the sentence, the greater the risk, and Vick’s sentence will result in less incentive for others to promote dog fights. Sooner or later, it won’t be such a back-burner issue. In a sense, we should be grateful to Vick for educating all of us who never thought much about dog fighting before to drawing out attention to the inhumane element of our society that promotes it.

By CSAACCO

December 10, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

I love my animals almost as much as my family but I think Michael Vick’s sentence was too harsh. I don’t think the sentence was so much to do with race as it was people like PETA and all those organizations. I think that the judical system made an example out of him due to his high profile. If you were to look in the NFL, NBA or MLB, I would bet you a dollar to a dime that there were athletes with much worse offenses that Michael Vick’s, ie. assault,rape, drugs, whatever. I really think that he has more that paid his dues for his crimes…

By shanny8

December 10, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

i for one am glad thatthe whole matter is done with…for me 23 months is okay…he’ll be out in a year and a half anyways…and back to football…i feel that the commish will let him back into the nfl, and although he WONT be with the falcons, he will play football again…it’s funny how it’s all said and done and folks STILL wanna bury him, recuisitate him and kill him all over again…it’s not THAT serious, folks…yuh he may have had extraordinary talent, and such, but he is a man…it’s not like he was a preacher or a superhero and stood for truth and justice and such…some of you folks need to get a life, forreal…everyone makes mistakes…everyone screws up…but who are we to keep trying to judge? he accepted his punishment, and i’m cool with that…let us finally move on…

By Windy Murray

December 10, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

I wish Mike Vick all the best. I hope all that cast the first stone does not live in a glass house. I always wish people will learn to understand the differences in people cultures. I wish people would stand up for the inhuman injustices towards four legged animals as they would for the hungry man on the corner begging for a dollar. We are so judgmental, Vic I forgive you and so does God. God in slowing you down to humble yourself and reflect on the talents and gifts you have to offer. As young black athletes with a future, you have to separate yourself from the people that are not on your same page. Parents of upcoming inspiring athlete must stay parents and not on the bank roll.

By facts

December 10, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

It was just some dawwgs. Most black peoples excuse for everything. Most never see the big picture for crime. Black culture is the laughing stock of the world. Look at your own neighborhoods.

By Bye Bye Vick

December 10, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

“OK, some are saying his crime was gambling or betting on dogs. The fair thing to do is give him a sentence like they did Pete Rose for gambling and betting in baseball. Just don’t allow him to enter into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.”

Uh, do you even know what he was charged for? He took an illegal operation over state lines violating the Interstate Commerce Act which is a federal offense. Pete Rose bet on games. Please get your facts straight before you post.

By Joe

December 10, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

I just want everyone who is saying the sentence is too harsh to allow me to hang their dog in front of them, then, if the dog isn’t completely dead, put its head in a bowl of water until it dies.

By HMmm

December 10, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

23 months is a little harsh…but then if you do the crime…. I don’t think its a racial issue anymore btw. I think black folks know he did something wrong…they are just more lenient when it comes to prison sentences for non-violent crimes. I think sentencing guidelines are flawed as it is. (10 years for weed?)

Vote Ron Paul!

By blah blah blah

December 10, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

I guess dogs get more justice than the slaughter of dead iraqi children and american soldiers, when will the “decider” be sent to jail for killing people?

By Bruce

December 10, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

This was about dog’s people,every year during black history month we see pictures of PEOPLE standing to take pictures besides a human being hanging from a tree and yet these people are not brought to justice.It’s not playing the race card it’s about being fair PERIOD !!!!!!!!!!!!

By Daisy Cutter

December 10, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

” African American ” By Very Funny

Pa-lease…..I’ll be willing to bet that most of you clowns weren’t born in Africa so stop it with that silly PC term. I know a white guy that just immigrated from South Africa…now he’s a true African American. If you were born in the U.S.A., then you’re an American pure and simple and you need to be PROUD of that fact.

By nimbooda

December 10, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

To Lee: the hockey player ran into something, killed his friend who was the passenger and it is not a felony to drive drunk – these cases are not comparable – I would say that driving drunk period should be a felony.

To Najeh Davenpoop: you sound like you are from a country who eat dogs. If you are from a country that is barbaric then maybe your opinion makes sense. Dogfighting is one out of many things going on in this world that I believe is not humane — period.

To Renee: Though you attempt to make a point…it comes up way short…to the point of stupid…Vick broke the law…hello?…it is not against the law to hunt deer…hello??? And you don’t have to be an animal lover to agree that Michael Vick should be punished for breaking the law – period. If you are an animal lover, it doesn’t mean you are a hunter too. If I was a hunter, which I am not, I do understand deer hunting and dogfighting are not the same thing. Deer is a wild animal and not considered a domestic animal or pet in THIS country. Deer hunting is regulated. I am not for hunting even though I lived in New England and know they do need a hunting season to help keep the population of deer under control. I am sure it is the same where there is an overwhelming population.

To be a millionaire, like Michael Vick, wasting money on dogfighting to make more money instead of using that to better society, education, etc., is sickening.

And last, not everyone values different animals the same. I am surprised I even have to make that comment for those who are clueless.

Vick is a confessed criminal and he deserves to be punished. Again, you don’t have to be an animal lover to know right from wrong…civilized from barbaric…humane vs inhumane.

By BYUGRL

December 10, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

This reminds me of the post cards of white people bringing their picnic baskets on Sunday afternoon’s to watch black people being lynched back in the early/mid 1900’s. This is a modern day lynching and a miscarriage of justice. Again, the vast majority of white people are the only ones enjoying and gloating at this moment (pretty sad). What happened to the white man in Gwinnett County who was feeding his pit bull kittens? Where were you then, you so called animal lovers, oh I know you; missed that. Karma has a way of bringing people to their knees, therefore please remember what goes around comes around. The hate in the heart of so many white people is evident. Hatred and bigotry eat up the core of your souls; TRY LOVE. IT WORKS! IT REALLY DOES!

By Aman

December 10, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

The difference between Vick and Heatley. Heatley did not intentionally strangle, drown, hang, or elecrocute the person killed in the accident. Yep, it was an accident. That is the difference. The people claiming race is a factor are doing so while sitting at home with no jobs, no money, and blaming the government and white people for all of their misfortunes. Step up and take responsibility and stop using race as an excuse. At least Vick was man enough to say he did wrong. I hope he gets out and can make some sort of comeback. When he pays his debt to society he should be free and clear. If he screws up again then ban him from the league.

By nice block

December 10, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Nice block if you guys played OL for the Falcons they wouldn’t have given up a sack all season.

By Jimbo

December 10, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Tom Brady and Big Ben are exciting to watch!

Of course with the way the O-Line performed for Vick last season, he should be used to watching out for the blindside tackle….hehe

By Truth

December 10, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Vick was wrong for fighting the dogs, then he did not want to coorperate, then he failed his drug test Even after getting busted, he had a chance to help himself, and he did not. Instead of screaming about how he should get less because child molesters get less, let us scream that the child molesters deserve MORE!!!

By chyren

December 10, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Its wrong to be cruel to animals and a punishment is due but this was a public spectacle to say the least with an easy whodonit tale. I wish more people with passion and investigative work and hard results would take the high road with less easy issue like; how scooter libby was the only one found guilty while the truth never really came out on who leak the name; and the firings of the all those US attorneys; the hurrican katrine hit areas financial, economic and rebuilding woes, the complete care of service personnell after returning back from war and just all the other high profile issues the US has. I mean our president just decided to retract the level of threat of iran, based on the same intelligence program that was used to single out and indict. I mean if its about justice and truth why go after little fishes. Everyone including their momma knows dog fighting has been around for yrs and yrs but why now is it such an enemy of the state, just because a celebrity was involved. I still say it was cruel to hurt those animals but i don’t believe it was about the animals pain and suffering at all. It was about the opportunity to create a public spectacle.

By kindeya

December 10, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

I am all for animal rights but 23 months is a very long time for this.

By sherry dawkins

December 10, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

If you lie it will come back and bite you. Michael Vick knew he was wrong. So, what you want him to go free. He waited till the Fed’s got involved to admit his wrong. Come on people let it go.

By Applause

December 10, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

All of these people that are in the public eye and are getting away with a slap on the wrist is just enforcing the youth’s idea that they can get away with it, too. It’s long overdue that we should make examples of those in the public eye, and show them that they are NOT special. The public pays their salaries, so we should demand justice when they break the law. If it was you or I that did some of the things that celebs get away with, we’d be in prison for LONG time.

In case you didn’t get it…I’M GLAD. It should have been an even longer sentence and he should be made to work community service in shelters across the country while on his probation.

By BADDOG

December 10, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

All of the money Vick made for Blank and he wants his 20 million back. Hell Blank the Dome was NEVER SOLD OUT until Vick came here so MAN up take take the “L” and get a TEAM here adn keep it movin

By Laura

December 10, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

I am glad Vick got 23 months and I hope he receives at least that much from the state of VA. To Mr. Blank please do NOT ever let Vick back on your team. I have been a season ticket holder since 97 and contrary to what some “Vick” ticket holders may think, NONE of the “Falcon” season ticket holders that I know (white or black) want him back on our team or even in the NFL. He is an embarrassment to the city of Atlanta. What he did was barbaric and cruel; strangling, hanging and electrocuting dogs, people please tell me you are NOT ok with that behavior. This had nothing to do with race and everything to do with his arrogance, conceit and lack of moral code. I would like to think that the time in prison will do him good, but given his past behavior and flaunting of the rules (marijuana while on probation!) I think he will end up the same as always - a disappointment on and off the field.

By Aman

December 10, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Very Funny,

Your claims of racism aren’t taken seriously anymore because these days it is used more as an excuse for behavior. I’m amazed that when a man breaks the law and does something that he knew was illegal and then gets punished for that act you declare racism. At what point does he deserve the punishment mandated by law? All you see is black and white rather than the actions of a man, regardless of his race. Everytime you play the race card you take a step backward and lose credibility.

By Is this Deja Vu?

December 10, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

**I must say I find AJC and some of its posters here hilarious and sad. Mick Vick didn’t do anything harsh enough for me to following him through the news, post front page stories of him, etc. Now what I find absolutely sad is that there are convicted child molesters out there who have received less time than Vick. I guess a dog’s life is far more greater than a helpless child. This was clearly a racial issue and they (white folks) wanted to make an example out of Vick. John Cuey was able to fondle two children, commit burglary and he was paroled before he served two years. Later he ultimately killed the helpless lil girl Jennifer Lunsford!!!

Pick and choose your battles FBI and other police agencies. This was nothing to waste my damn tax money on. I want to see my money and front pages of newspapers showing how another child molester was stopped.

This Michael Vick stuff speaks volumes about our priorities here in the US. AJC if you can use your platform to support more positive things or speak about thing that we as people need to be concerned with then shut down immediately!!!

We are built on racism and ignorance……**

By DAVID

December 10, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

I am an animal lover, I think what he did is wrong. But what really bothers me is there is more of an uproar about the killing of dogs than there is about people killing people, molesting children etc. It is a sad commentary on us as human beings that we place more value on animals than people. Especially poor people. Sad. He would have gotten a lighter sentence if he had shot a person. Sad.

By Bank of America

December 10, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

The only question that remians is when will Vick officially file for bankruptcy and stiff all his creditors?

By Naydean

December 10, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

We all make mistake and Michael Vick is no exception, however the crime he was accused of was horrid and he deserves to accept some type of accountability but 23 months in prison is injustice for a first time offender. Its important that we all learn something from this and that shouldn’t just be hate and rhetoric. My advise to MV7 would be keep your head up because the bible states although I fall I will rise again because there is no power on earth to keep you down. Just have faith you all especially his family and friends. New York City still love Mike Vick.

By Mike

December 10, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Wow you experienced 400 years of racism? You must be one old-looking dude. Throw away the crutch and take responsibility for your actions. Stop blaming old, dead white guys for your problems. Fix the 70% out-of-wedlock birthrate and father-less children. That’s the root cause of a lot of problems - Father-less children, not white people. Drop the gangsta stuff and promote the unified black family consisting of a husband, a wife, and children. Need I say it again, - FATHERLESS CHILDREN is the problem.

By Anne

December 10, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

In Life many things happen to teach us a lesson to be remembered. In my opinion the sentence is too harsh, I feel someone in higher places wanted Mikes career to cease-there are other players out there doing the same or worse.
Mike I pray that you remain strong and take this time to re-assess your life. Stay away from the so call friends that just want to use you for money. Prayer everyday that your life will prosper from this time with yourself.
Exercise and continue develop your skills while incarcerated and you will be alright. One door close and another will open just put your life in God’s hands and forget all the heaters.
Yes you made some bad choices but this does not deserve the punishment. To finish you career like this and then they take your money to give these dogs a better life than they would give the poor homeless kids out there. You are still my number one quarter back. Be strong Mike.

By Nan

December 10, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

The sentence is way too lenient. Vick never owned up to what he did until he had no choice but to do so. He’s a self-centered thug who’s never had to take responsibility for his own actions. The Falcons are better off without him. Believe it or not, there things in life that are more important than winning football games.

By Inequality_Speaks

December 10, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

For all of you all saying this was fair… Compare his crime against animals to Danny Heatly’s crime against humans…. On guy said “that angered” me, but wen’t on to bash Vick. The bottom line is: let the punishment fit the crime across the board!

By Steve

December 10, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

he should have gotten more time. it’s time for athletes to be accountable for their actions. forget the race card, Mike is just a bad egg and he got caught.

By Vick Supporter

December 10, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

I don’t see dog fighting being much different from boxing. Only difference is the loser doesn’t die. you’ve got people in jail for less time for murder, so this kind of sucks. Being from Richmond myself, I already knew that judge would want his name on the map anyway and give Vick a long sentence. Oh well…you do the crime, gotta do the time.

By JUSTICE

December 10, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

IF THIS HAD BEEN BRETT FARVE OR TOM BRADY THEY WOULD NOT HAVE GOT ANY TIME. wHAT’S THE DIFERENCE OR WHATS WORSE, FIGHTING DOGS OR SHOOTING DEER, BEARS, ZEBRAS, ETC. WITH HIGH POWERED RIFLES?

By Judge Lance Ito

December 10, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Anybody hear the comments of lead counselor Billy Martin? If he had defended OJ, Vick would at least have someone run the toss sweep on the prison football team…What a buffoon!

By Elwalter

December 10, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

If justice were carried out fairly in this country without regards to race, then this would still be extreme. Tobacco companies are responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of human lives each year. There are no protests, no sanctions, no arrests, just insanities in the weight of human justice. In 1968, two African-American college students, and one high school student were murdered on the campus of South Carolina State University by South Carolina State Patrolmen. In addition, 39 other students were shot in the back running away from the line of fire. I was there. There was no justice for the families of these slain, and injured students, some of whom still walking around with bullets in their bodies. I lost a roommate, and the FBI questioned me about his personality, and temperament. None of the 12 patrolmen were held accountable for their actions. None even lost a day of pay. Compare the treatment of Michael Vick. His testimony and plea have been registered. Look at how much he’s lost. A million dollars for the care of existing animals. Two-thirds of Georgia’s population do not make that kind of money in their life times. Public ridicule and shame is not enough either. Loss of a multimillion dollar career is not enough for those that hate Vick. It’s not about justice, it has always been about hatred. Judgement day awaits America because of its hyprocisy, and racist display of justice.

By Inequality_Speaks

December 10, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

I’m sick of this “righteous and just” people posting remarks and are too ignorant to know that they are really reacist remarks… “Blacks get more time cause they do more time”??? So punish an individual more severly than he deserves because he is of a particular race? In case you didn’t know, THAT’s RACIST!!

By Kim

December 10, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

This is so unfair Mark my words he will be out soon and he will once again- reign supreme

You will not be able to hold him down!

God bless Michael and his family and friends!

By the arthur you SUCK!

By Aman

December 10, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

I don’t remember Danny Heatley lying his rear end off to prosecutors, the public, his boss, and the commissioner. Vick did all of that until he was backed into a corner with all of the evidence. Secondly, one was an accident the other was intentional.

By Chris

December 10, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Hey jacqueline hawkins:

“you dont the right to judges him you are not god. when judgement come are you really to be judge are you perfect”

Umm…is that supposed to be English?

By Enough Already!

December 10, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

I wish people would take up the cause to ban Ultimate Fighting like they did dog fighting. Two grown men getting in a ring to beat each other BLOODY is more or just as inhumane as what Michael Vick admitted doing to those dogs. What’s so funny to me is when I see women protesting against Mike and these are the same Dainty souls that attend UFC matches and you see them cheering like NUTS. Am I missing something? We are a SICK, DEPRAVED and Violent nation so when things like this come happen it NEVER surprises me. What is shocking is that we care more about the lives and well being of Animals than Human Beings. Shame on us in and may GOD forgive us for this FOOLISHNESS we call Justice in America.

By Vick Supporter

December 10, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Vick is innocense… He was frames by the republicans that made the wars in germany.

By coach

December 10, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Well, 23 months for some stupid dogs is a bit extreme. Dope dealers get off easier than this on a first offense. Animals get better treatment than humans something is wrong with the U.S. government. This sentence and all animal laws need to be revisited. Bottom line they aren’t humans people. And race played a major factor all over this case. I still wear my 7 proudly and dare any one of you people to say one word.

By UGAMAN

December 10, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

I think th sentence is ridiculous and shows just how screwed up our judicial system is in this country. Take Mary Winkler for example….She killed her husband and got 3 months times served. TIME SERVED. Now what Vick did was wrong but IMHO I think he should have got a huge fine levied on him…1 Year community service in which he should have to work at a veterinary clinic or something to that effect and he should have been suspened from the NFL without pay for that year. On top of that he should DEFINITELY have to pay back all that bonus money to the Falcons. That’s my take. I just bvelieve that our judiciary system is screwed up when you get less time for manslaughter than you do for killing an animal. Countless of other crimes to me are worse than what he did and yes…I am a dog lover. When you start thinking about child molestation or manslaughter…voluntary or involuntary which was what was ruled on the Leonard Little case, or rape or even being an accessory to murder…those are far worse than killing dogs IMO. Yet those crimes seem to be sentenced far less than what Vick got. No doubt Vick was made an example of but wait and see…our judicial system WILL NOT be consistant the next time and BIG NAME athlete gets into SERIOUS trouble. I think thats what bothers me the most.

All in all…I would still like to have been standing outside that courthouse today and grabbed MV and shook him and said…WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?? YOU IDIOT!!! All Vick did was ruin his life and the pro football life of every Atlanta Falcons fan for the next few years or however long it takes this team to pull out of this purgatory.

By Gus

December 10, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

I am reminded of the Nationwide Insurance commercial — “Life comes at you fast.” Boy, did it ever happen for Michael Vick. This is a tragedy of epic proportions. In what should be his greatest year as an athlete, he has gone from the pinnacle to pariah. For whom the bells toll? They toll for thee.

By New_drinking_game

December 10, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Take a swig when you read “he who is without sin cast the first stone”, “keep your head up MV” “it’s only a dog” or any reference to PETA or deerhunting.

Due to the lack of original thought by Vick-suckers, you’ll be loaded in thirty seconds.

stilldwnforMV7, you don’t get extra credit for using more ???? and !!!! But you do get extra credit for using every excuse listed above to talk about anything but Vick’s crime.

By InTownGal

December 10, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Vick broke the law and now has been sentenced within the guidelines. Be happy, cause he could’ve gotten more time. Whether you are a dog lover or not, it doesn’t matter, so stop saying he was convicted b/c he is BLACK! You are as stupid as he is. But hey, at least we know that money doesn’t buy intelligence. CASE CLOSED!

By Atlanta football fan

December 10, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

C’mon people: it’s done and so is Vick. Now, can we let the Falcons get back to the business of building a team the town can be proud of, provided Blank is actually interested in such a noble pursuit? Either way, five will get you ten he winds up getting that stadium in Gwinett!

By E.Lamar

December 10, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

I know it was a bad thing to use these dogs in the way that he did.But as I have heard other people say that are more in the know than I am,does the punishment fit the crime?Why did the Feds punish this man like he had killed someone?These were dogs,he is not a threat to society!(By the way,how many people have smoked or drank or know someone that has.)If you do,you all need to be doing 21 mos in a Federal lock-up.Someone needs to look at the laws we let these elected officials sign in to law.Good luck Mr Vick and I hope this tells you something about being Black in America in 2007.

By BADDOG

December 10, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

okay lets look at this THE ONLY REASON THEY WENT AFTER VICK was because he blew off Congress when they were going to give him and award and he pulled a no show that’s why he had all this happen PEOPLE HE MADE THE GOVERMENT LOOK BAD. This is what this was all about where did this dog fighting thing take place VIRGINIA so look beyond what the MEDIA is saying THE GOVERMENT WANTED TO TEACH HIM A LESSON YOU DIG?

By Jenny

December 10, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Judge Not…lest Ye be judged. My prayer is that Mike Vick can get his life together and stop making poor decisions. His decision making skills are not where they should be…

By Pops

December 10, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Ron Mexico’s arrogant behind got what he deserved. His arrogant behind not only financed the dogfighting ring, but he was the ringleader. Plus he had the nerve to smoke pot and lie to the FBI while he was out on bond before his hearing.

As an African-American, I am so sick and tired of other A-A’s whining about race. This has nothing to do with race. This is about a man who didn’t have any common sense and chose to do illegal things.

If only he had used his brain and watched who he kept in his inner circle, we wouldn’t be here talking about this.

May this be a reminder to everyone that you think twice before you do anything illegal. Sooner or later, you will go down.

By Johnny Reb

December 10, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Wah, wah wah, you bunch of cry babies need some cheese to with all this whine. He is just an over paid ball player and they were just dogs. Who cares. Get over it, it all worked out for the better. Vick did not do nothing for the state of GA, the city of Atlanta or the Falcon’s. No big loss.

By a.c

December 10, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

what’s wrong with this world today? did anyone doubt that this was going to happen? of course he will get just a short time..last time I checked, he was still a celebrity!! o.j sympson continues….

By Mike

December 10, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

We must be crazy to try to reason with most of these fools. Any high profile black person accused of any crime was railroaded. O.J. - didn’t kill anyone; Michael Jackson - never molested children; Kobe - never raped anyone (he’s married and bought his wife a nice diamond remember?); Marion Berry - nevered smoked crack with a hooker while he was married. You will never convince some people no matter how much evidence you have. Forget about Michael Vick being STUPID. He had it all - fame, money, adulation and threw it away. Why? Because he’s STUPID. He did it to himself.

By season ticket holders

December 10, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

i think all the comments posted saying vicks punishment was to severe are the idiots who bought season tickets to falcons games for years to come and are now realizing there pride and joy michael vick will never be around again. hate to break it to you guys but the guy was never and will never be a great quarterback. should of spent your money elsewhere.

By dawn

December 10, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

I hope the state charges are not tossed out, I hope he is convicted and gets max sentences from all of them, Further I hope Michael Vick is banned by the NFL for life and when he does finally get out of a VA prison he is too old to play football. My comments have NOTHING to do with Michael Vicks race, but are made because he is a loser and lower then scum to me.

By KenFromCalifornia

December 10, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

if a judge has your entire life in his hands, necessitating you keeping your nose out of trouble, then why on earth would you go out and smoke a doobie??? the judge coulda sent him to jail right then instead of the 10pm house arrest/curfew. for a 27 year-old man, michael doesn’t think too clearly. well, watch the nfl give him a suspension after his prison sentence is completed. the nfl can’t allow someone who bankrolled an illegal gambling operation to be anywhere near their facilities…the rookies who attend that yearly symposium would laugh at commissioner goodell knowing that michael’s superstardom got him back into the league. btw…barry bonds’ friend preferred to stay in jail for 3 years rather than rat him out.

By sexy1977

December 10, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

to LEE:

I don’t think a boycott of the Georgia Aquarium will be necessary. At the rate they are going, all the fish will be dead by summer.

By Gwinnett Dad

December 10, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

I’m listening to a sports radio talk show, which I almost never do. The subject, of course, is Michael Vick. A majority of callers have no logic, only hate, or excuses and hate, or hatred and contempt. Victimhood, over and over. Mental cripples. People that figure that everything is permitted simply because of their pigmentation. I wouldn’t have known how poor the thought process is for so many. The charges involve a conspiracy that took place over six years. Michael Vick is not a victim, he is a criminal, and admitted criminal that pleaded guilty to being a criminal. Case closed.

By Ken Strickland

December 10, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

I’m a dog owner and lover. However, I won’t allow that to override my use of common sense and logic. What MVick did was simply stupid and unacceptable overall. But, far too many of you are using the killing of those dogs to hide personal issues. FACT: Every agency and municipality in the country, with an animal control facility, euthanizes dogs proven to be overly agressive. That has always been standard procedure. What Vick did is more humane than turning them loose or selling them to unsuspecting buyers, knowing they are aggressive and violent.

Before the greyhound adoption program was created, what do you think owners did to greyhounds that could no longer run or measure up to standards? What do you think happens to those greyhounds that go unadopted? Most of you clowns need to get off your high horses, so to speak, and address the real issues that ails you.

By JS

December 10, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Who Cares?

By william

December 10, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

On the same day M. Vick is sentenced, Mr. Libby drops his appeal

Maybe, President Bush will commute Vick’s sentence.

This is the type of duality that create cynicism in our legal system.

By Mark

December 10, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

“White Supremacy Sucks”

Think you’d be used to it by now.

By Gwen

December 10, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

Roswell Ed, it is just a dog.

By RJacko

December 10, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Let’s see Vick receives 23 months imprisonment, lose his privilege to work in his profession, lose more than 150 million dollars in income, is vilified, mocked and humiliated for participating in dog fighting. Vick was also ordered to pay a whopping $19,333.33 for each dog for their care and upkeep.

On the other hand Danny Heatley a white professional hockey player, killed a fellow team mate, gets probation, resumes his career and receives sympathy from the public and the family of the deceased. Even Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, Joseph Lowery and John Lewis agree with all of the irrational yahoos who think that Michael Vick got what he deserved since we have not heard a peep from them.

To those of you who believe that Vick was not punished enough. Consider this fact: the greyhound industry killed over 19,000 dogs in 2001 alone, including 5,000 puppies, check out this link http://www.hsus.org/pets/issuesaffectingourpets/runningfortheirlivestherealitiesofgreyhound_racing/

Don’t these dogs deserve the same consideration and sympathy for being killed? If not, why not? If so, why? Obviously, it is not about the dogs. It is about Vick and it is called selective prosecution and in this case selective persecution as well. No other person who has ever been convicted of dog fighting has ever been ordered to pay for the care of dogs after they were confiscated by the humane society. Those dogs are routinely killed if they are not adopted. In addition, the humane society kills thousands more dogs and cats who are not adopted every year. For those who believe that Vick got what he deserved they see no problem with this, in their minds this is real justice and sweet revenge!

No other person who has been convicted of dog fighting has paid this harsh of a sentence in the history of the USA and that is a fact.

By D.

December 10, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

I’m sure my opinion have rung over & over again…I think the punishment was too harsh! I do not see too much of a difference between us killing animals for food -or- “euthanizing” them because there is no one to adopt them or simply can’t afford the upkeep. Which brings me to my next point…fining Michael Vick for over $1,000,000 for the upkeep of dogs that were left behind. Dogs that more than likely will be “euthanized” anyway BECAUSE no one wants to adopt them. What sense does that make?

I guess I felt the same about Martha Stewart. I don’t see anything wrong w/getting the inside scoop on saving me money. But, Hey…I’m just a citizen not a law maker.

By Me

December 10, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Reading these comments make me ashamed to even be from Georgia and living among such racists pieces of ‘ish. Judge not is what the Bible says and here on this AJC blog many of you have referred to the man as a ‘thug’. What if people referred to you as senseless ‘white trash’? All of you bigots should be ashamed of your comments …

By MLK

December 10, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

I’ve devoted my life to racial equality. I marched as rocks were thrown at me. I died for your civil rights. And you people haven’t changed one bit. I’m rolling in my grave.

By Ima Law-Abiding Taxpayer

December 10, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

RE: **By Lee

December 10, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

ATTENTION!!! EVERYONE immediately BOYCOTT HOME DEPOT, THE FALCONS, AND THE GEORGIA AQUARIUM this should give BLANK and MARCUS something to ponder**..

Right On, Lee! I support you 100% in your boycott efforts!

Could you VICK SUPPORTERS also add Cobb and North Fulton counties do you boycott list, too?

We’d greatly appreciate that.

Thanks.

By Callermike

December 10, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

People are responsible for the choices they make. Vick chose to hang, electrocute and beat animals to death for no other reason than that they didn’t win their fights. Vick chose to smoke marijuana while out on bond, a violation of that bond, and yet another incredibly poor decision. Vick and his brother were coddled all through school because of their athletic abilities, and both thought they were above the law somehow. Turns out they weren’t. Vick is a vicious human being who happens to be black. His race is a non-factor, and to “Disappointed”, while White Supremacy does, indeed, suck, so does turning every issue into a racial issue. There’s right and there’s wrong, and Vick was decidedly wrong. End of story.

By Lucille Willoughby

December 10, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

For those who keep saying that Vick’s doing more time than a child molester, that says more about the idiocy of our sex crimes sentencing than it does his case, you know, not the other way around.

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

I pray that God sends damnation, curses, and all kinds of plagues and payback on every white person that hand their hands on this Vick deal.

By Mike Lindsey

December 10, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

There seems to be a double standard among both the media and the public. Recent incidents involving Braves manager Bobby Cox (domestic violence) and former Falcons player Patrick Kearney (a woman was raped in his home while he was there) and NO one has expressed any outrage, however with this Vick thing everybody has an opinion and seemingly wants this guy put away without being allowed to ever play football again.

By Lisa

December 10, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

He should have gotten 5 years. If you can do this to a dog you can do it to a human being. He is sick.

By brandi barnett

December 10, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Americans can shoot birds and kill(hunt) deers..butto a dog, this carries a 23 months sentence. Something is wrong with this country. Years ago dog frighting was legal. Something is clearly wrong with this country.

By Scooby Doo!

December 10, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

White people have also been sent to jail for dog fighting. Recently, and have been sentenced to more time. Maybe they cut the celeb a brake. Also the $142,000 is money he has not earned yet.

By Allen Neal

December 10, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Dear BYUGRL, the only lynching that’s taken place involved the poor dog that Michael Vick dropped to its death with a noose around its neck.

I’m white, and I have no hatred for Michael Vick. I wish him well as he adapts to prison life.

Two points stand out for me in all of this:

One, how could someone as vile as Vick coexist on the same team with such a dynamic, positive individual as Warrick Dunn? Vick saw what Dunn accomplished, yet nothing rubbed off.

Two, how could any organization know so little about their employee as did the Falcons about Vick? I find it nearly impossible to believe that no one in that organization had no knowledge of the dogfighting rumors.

The final moral of the story (Mr. Blank please read): money is worthless without heart, useless without purpose, and evil for the selfish.

By Ann

December 10, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

I love animals, have a dog myself but this is the worse mess I have every heard. The media stinks to high heaven for the way they treated this man. Now can we send Mr. Bush to jail for mudering over 3,000 people and breaking the Nation.

By Dumb uneducated waste

December 10, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

When I heard the news this morning, I got so sick to my stomach that I had to take a sick day. How could they do this to my boy, Vick. He is da man. I haven’t left my room all day and I don’t when I will. I really am depressed. This is a dark day for ATL.

By Jumbo

December 10, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

**The thing that amazes me throughout all the “racist” diatribe being screamed in here is that our black brothers don’t seem to care that the leading cause of death in a black man under the age of 25 is being murdered by a black man! THE LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH MY BLACK BRETHREN! Why don’t you guys jump on that bandwagon and fight that cause instead of whining about how Vick is being mistreated?

Choose your battles. Vick isn’t one of them. Stop killing your own and be a man for G-d’s sake.**

By BossLady

December 10, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Take a close look at the people that are holding the PETA signs, a very close look. This is strange. If they cannot get you for what they want then they take this and get you anyway. Take a Verry Lonng Loook!!!

By Bill Cosby

December 10, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Vick fans: Did anyone ever mention personal responsibilty when you were growing up?

By Chris Redman

December 10, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

He did wrong. He is now paying for it. He will never be with the Falcons again. So let’s move on!

By Ekklesia Reformata

December 10, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

Ekklesia Reformata: Our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ certainly moves according to his own will. Why Vick and why now is the question that ruminates through my mind. I certainly have done far worse than Vick, yet it’s him he gets what most on the AJC poll believe to be too harsh of a sentence. The answer must certainly be Christ’s gracious gift to the rest of us to examine ourselves and to acknowledge how easily we could be arrested, tried, convicted, sentenced, and imprisoned for what we often routinely do as we please, not fully considering the ramifications.

Of course, I know many of you have never do anything wrong, illegal, or sinful, and I’m sure you already cast you stone at Vick.

Something tells me, by the sovereign manner in which Jesus has worked in the past, Vick will be ok.

All Praises be to Jesus Christ - Let Him have mercy on whom He will, Left Him have compassion on whom He will.

By Robin

December 10, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Of all the comments that I have read, I can’t believe the cold hearts of some of the people. Let us all remember that the Bible say to judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgement ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measures ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.(Matthew 7:1-2.) Michael Vick did make a mistake but who are any of you to critize anyone.It does not matter what any of you think about Mr. Vick because he only has to answer to one God and he has already forgiven him. So stop making harsh remarks and pray for Mr. Vick’s strength. Mr. Vick, I pray that God gives you grace, mercy ,ane peace for your journey. God is there with you just call on him,he will never leave you or forsake you. Remeber not to be afraid because God is with you, he will uphold you, and those who come against you will not succeed. (Isaiah 41:10-11) Give all your troubles to the lord and he will take care of you (1 Peter 5:7). God has order his angels to take care of you (Psalm 91:10-11). Keep your faith and know that this to shall pass. God Loves You More Than You Will Ever Know. Be Encouraged!!!!!

By Johnny Reb

December 10, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Dumd a*s people. Wah wah wah black, wah wah wah white your all stupid.

By Joe

December 10, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

Wish he would have gotten the full sentence. And for all of the blacks that are crying over him, you need to pull your heads out of your backsides and realize that this has NOTHING to do with his color. He is a FELON.

By kay

December 10, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Say what you will. The fact is, he was guilty and he should be punished for it but for 23 months? Seriously, there are rapists, child molesters and murderers who don’t get that much time. I am a 37 year old white mother of 3 and am disappointed in Michael, saddened at this whole situation and disgusted at his sentence.

By wow

December 10, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

America, Land of the free…Wow! You people are mean spirited and judgemental. I sure hope none of your skeletons fall out of the closet and knock you in the head.

To Aman: Danny Heatley was drunk when the accident happened. He should have been charged with vehicular homicide.

By IT WASN'T DOG FIGHTING THAT LANDED HIM IN THE BIG HOUSE

December 10, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

IT WAS FINANCING AN INTERSTATE GAMBLING ENTERPRISE

So SHUT UP about how Vick was treated unfairly for being a dog fighter.

It was the fact that he bankrolled an ILLEGAL INTERSTATE GAMBLING ENTERPRISE that got him 23 months in federal lock-up!!!

Also, that is why he will never play in the NFL again - the NFL frowns on people that can call into question it’s legitimacy. The NFL Shield is much more important to itself than the diminished star power of Michael Vick, convicted felon.

By Your Geometry Teacher

December 10, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

dog catcher December 10, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this “pitbull bites mailman in the a$$ Americas Response: kill the dog!!

pitbull mauls little girl while shes playing in front yard Americas Response: kill the dog!!

Some cities in America have even prohibited people from owning pitbulls.

Now when Michael Vick fights dogs and kills them…. America made a 360… and immediately shed tears for the same animals they’ve always hated. Pitbulls are now “the poor innocent dogs” “

I believe you mean a 180. 360 is a complete circle and will bring you back right where you were.

By Martin

December 10, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

I cannot believe that he got 23 mo. If this had been some nobody(like me or you) they would have gotten off with probably 6 mo. probation, but because he was high profile he gets big time. I agree he did wrong, but let the punishnent warrant the crime. The judge wanted to prove a point. Go Falcons, hope Mike is back in 2009.

By Renee

December 10, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

To Nimbooda and Gumz Blu: There is NO difference. People hunt for a SPORT! Majority of the time it’s not for food, it’s just to hang the poor animals on their walls!! Hum…let me kill Bambi today, for fun?? How humane is that?? If the govt could find a way to tax dog fighting, it would be legal also!! This country is ALL about money!!!

By la

December 10, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

T-Money Michael Vick has to pay fines and fees for this crime and you know it. A Gov’t agency is taking care of his dogs for one million dollars. That money is not going to the those dogs so we both know that.

By Taj

December 10, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

Culturally, some countries eat dogs, some groom them as pets, others fight them to the death.

Unfortunately for Mr. Vick he chose to fight dogs in a country that glorifies them.

In turn America as chosen to destroy this character and strip everything in view from him. In addition, this has set the Falcons Franchise back another 100 years, and drawn a line in the sand between realistic people & those who love animals more than humans.

My question to America — do you feel better?

By David - Alpharetta

December 10, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

I am a white dog owner and would never do anything to hurt my dogs. But human rights should never come before animal rights. To put a man in jail for 23 months for fighting dogs is probably the craziest thing i have ever heard of. Vick is the poster child for this activity and it absolutely disgusts me. People get put into jail for 1 day for DUI and basically putting innocent people’s lives at risk. Does dog fighting put innocent people at risk??????

By Rose Blakely

December 10, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

I hope the Pittbull spirits hunt him down in his sleep and speak to his soul about the cruelty he displayed on those dogs. Justice was served. Only with true remorse for his actions will his healing begin.

By Freddy K.

December 10, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

He is black and should not serve any time. It is society’s fault that this has happened to this surperb athlete that was bound for the hall of fame. He should be set free and allowed to return to the NFL today. Just because he is black and for no other reason.

By whatever

December 10, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

I would like for all the people on here who say they know of or heard of murderers and robbers and hate crimes cases that have gotten less time then vick please give me a case number and or date. Just cause you say it does not prove a thing. He was the leader and without him and his money the other guys were just small potatoes. The falcons will be just fine in a year or two.

By falconfan4life

December 10, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

A crime is a crime is a crime. If you do not want to have to do the time do not do the crime. If enough people did not want it to be a crime, they could have the lawmakers change the laws. He owes a debt to society for breaking one of society’s laws and now he must pay. Why blame anyone but him. He did it. He admitted he did it. Blame Mike and no one else.

By Mark30339

December 10, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Nice comment by dog owner JS. I don’t believe anyone has been prosecuted for this federal crime before. I think Vick’s celeb status resulted in piling on — his first offender status deserved more leniency. If the feds are serious about dog killing, why aren’t the dead dogs on the interstate investigated — there must be hundreds brutally killed every week because owners abandon them on the highway.

By andy

December 10, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

I think what we’re talking about here is two issues:

1) Race relations in Atlanta is a problem and no one wants to discuss it honestly. Plainly stated, Atlanta’s African-Americans generally feel maligned because they see different standards of justice between themselves and whites. Whites generally see a disproportionate number of violent crimes perpetrated by African-American males.

2) Crime and punishment. The Vick case is a federal case and the whole country has been watching. The standard of justice outside Atlanta is higher and no one should be surprised by this sentence. After all, Atlanta is very lenient on criminals. Shirley Franklin wrote to this judge on Vick’s behalf. Shirley has had an unfortunate record on public safety after all and has even been a supporter of the culture of crime. Remember, the rest of the country does not operate this way and would never tolerate the crime that we unfortunately have to deal with in Atlanta. Whether its prostitution, panhandling, assault, murder, or having police officers gun down an elderly woman in her own home, Atlanta (with the endorsement of its current mayor) seems to accept and tolerate these acts whereas other places in the nation simply do not.

By chris

December 10, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

I think this sentence was totally unfair but he broke the law and has to deal wit the situation as a man! keep your head up mike! i would just love for someone to answer a question, aside from the legal stand point: how can a person shoot deer, birds, rabbits etc. not for survival but for sport and thats ok with society but this guy dog fights and he is treated like he is scum of the earth? someone please tell me the difference like i said before not from the legal standpoint but as humans?

By gkhkdffm

December 10, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Vick will face a few more years in a Virgina state prison after his time in the FED prison. His life, for the most part is over. He will never play in the NFL again.

By bdawg

December 10, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Only difference there Ken is he PURPOSELY TRAINED those dogs to be killers and in turn, killed them when they didnt perform. Nice try though buddy

By Stacey

December 10, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

I actually feel sorry for MV7. I mean, remember: *- the water bottle incident? - the stolen watch? - flipping off the fans? - “Ron Mexico”? and then - dogfighting *

Whew! He has indeed had a plethora of troubles during his NFL career. Surely, things have to get better.

Keep your head UP MV!

By BiteMe

December 10, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

Hey, dodobrown - You are such an idiot, I don’t even know where to begin.

By Brian

December 10, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

This is why I hate Atlanta. The “city to busy to hate”. We are to busy hating eachother for whatever rediculous reasons. Racism here is a nasty two way, fast moving at that.

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

One thing for sure, they are not going to lock up the betters that came from all parts of America to attend his dog fights. Those betters are high profile rich white folks.

By bw

December 10, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe 23 months for dogs. If he was white, he would have received 6 months. I hope the Falcons can count on PETA to fill the empty seats at the game. The only reason the game is sold out tonight is because the Saints have a bus trip from New Orleans.People get less time for kill humans and hitting their spouse.

By hcb

December 10, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Yeah the feds make you serve 85% of your time, UNLESS you can prove you are a drug addict, and Vick, in my opinion, used drugs to enter the drug program. It lasts 9 months once your in and then they release you to a half-way house. Watch and see where they sentence him to. I am willing to bet, Montgomery FPC! This is the closest minimum security prison with a drug program. This is an old tactic, gauranteed.

By Halle

December 10, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

Vick’s sentencing is absurd. 23 months for fighting dogs is cruel and unsual punishment. Sure, dogs are lovable animals but they’re considered PROPERTY!!! Sexual predators get less time and those perverts really do affect lives. Wake up people!!

By KenFromCalifornia

December 10, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

not that one has anything to do with the other, but i can’t find much sympathy for a man who infects a sista with an incurable disease without a care in the world. were it up to me, he woulda gone to prison for that one.

By Martin

December 10, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Hey Renee and Geo teacher, I agree 100%.

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

Who built all those elaborate dog houses and fighting pen for VICK? It seems like this should have been public knowledge well before the first dog was killed.

By It Is What It is

December 10, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

The truth is that if Mike were a steroid abuser, a child rapist, a attemped murderer, a drug dealer, a repeat drug user, a 5 time dui conviction, a tax evader, a thief, or any other major crime other than murder probably would not have been as harsh this sentence was. But I also think animal abuse is wrong so I am going out tomorrow and this weekend and proposing that we do a citizens arrest on all deer hunters and other animal hunters alike. Lets face it, whats the difference from fighting dogs and killing them versus sitting in a tree and blowing a 6 inch hole through the skull of a non violent animal, and then watching him die and in some case pulling out a pistol to finish off the job………… thats right nothing!!!!!!!! Be honet the fact that we had a young black man in charge in atlanta is where most of you all had the real problem. Atlanta never had anything and because of fans like you all they will continue to never have anything. Just think about it, players look at the way a city treats it’s players and to be honest I dont think anyone wants to play in a city that doesnt like their kind living in the “OLD SOUTH”.

By David Lee

December 10, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

Get your story straight everyone, Donny Heatly played for the Atlanta Knights not Atlanta Flames and their were traces of cocaine in his blood (but none was found on his person) and was not drinking. He drove a high end BMW 7 series and crashed it on West Paces Ferry near the Governor’s Mansion. His best friend and classmate in college at the University of Minnesota Dee Snider was ejected from the automobile and died. Snider’s family begged the judge to charge Heatley with 1st degree homicide but the judge refused. Do you people even know what the facts are? I hope this blog helps. Get them straight before making analogies. By the way, it is rumored that Heatley still has a drug problem up in Ottawa and a league suspension will be coming down any day now.

By DR

December 10, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

Judge sentencing this idiot is not responsible.

The man who gave this idiot $130 million is not responsible.

The people who liked this idiot in this city are not responsible.

The idiot himself is solely responsible for what happened to him.

The idiots who are supporting the idiot are misguided, clueless morons.

Willfully torturing animals shows how cruel a person is. There is nothing to defend here with absurd logic people.

By Good riddance!

December 10, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

The air in Atlanta is now more pure as a result of our not having to share precious oxygen with Vicko the Sicko. I hope he never gets out of prison.

By Vick Supporter

December 10, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this

White people love to see people punished, look at their history

By skibum

December 10, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

Too bad guys,your “man’got caught. Dan Reeves tried to counsel him as to what and who he needed to be aware of and who he should not be with. Don’t listen to the people who have gone before you and pay the price.Michael will have time to think these things over, 2 years and probie can help alot to get it into proper perspective. Wish him well and dont feel sorry, he made his decisons.

By Kup

December 10, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Has Jesse Jackson chimed in yet? How about B. Hussein Obama?

By Just wow

December 10, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

Lets get something straight right now - RACE IS NO ISSUE. No matter who it is, black, white, red, yellow or otherwise if you do a crime, get caught, and confess then you play with what was dealt to you. The laws in this country are a little backwards. While you all are bemoaning #7’s problems due to the world hating on rich and famous black men, think about the men of all colors who get caught up with drugs and mandatory minimum sentences. 10 years for drugs while a child molester and murderer are eligible for parole in 7 years. Let us not forget that we live in a country where it is ok to tell someone that they deserve something based on the color of their skin, not by content of character. Vick has had his problems not because he is black, and that just has to stop! The content of his character (drugs, VD, animal abuse, etc) is what got him in trouble. Before you talk about a black/white issue, why not try walking through a world where you not only have to try harder to prove yourself, but you have to hear that everything that has happened or will happen to a race is your fault. And for the people who brought up Dany Heatley only getting probation for Dan Snyders death - that was an accident. He didnt wake up that day and say “I think imma kill one of my friends in an accident tonight” Whereas Vick KNEW what he was doing and KNEW it was against the law.

And if you still think Vick is innocent then I hope I see you taking over O.J.’s hunt for “the real killer”

By Rod

December 10, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

It seems hypocrytical for one animal killer to sentence a another animal killer to 23 months in federal prison. The judge Hudson is a deer hunter, therfore kills an animal with four legs a tail and floppy ears. Im glad im not a deer getting my brains blowed out.

By jenny

December 10, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

This is definitely a different approach to all this, but has anyone considered the responsibility of professional organizations for throwing all those MILLIONS of DOLLARS at young men? Most of them have never had anything close to the money that they’ve received with NO guidance or counseling on how to use it well. Yes, MV was wrong, but look closer and you will see the system and culture is really to blame. And sadly, that includes you and me and anyone who bought into this out of control ‘salary’ being paid to young athletes. It’s a path to failure with no warning lights and no accountibility. Yes, I know Arthur Blank tried but I think it’s too late after they have signed a contract. Who wouldn’t want it all. I don’t blame MV. Sad, very, very sad. Maybe the entire industry needs to look in the mirror and ask ‘What could I have done to prevent this?’

By America

December 10, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

Taj, yes, much better. Thanks for asking.

By Mr. Obvious

December 10, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

ATLANTA: The City Too Busy to Hate

MIKE VICK: The Quarterback Too Dumb to Learn a Football Playbook or Obey the Law

VICK SUPPORTERS: The People Too Stupid to Finish Elementary School

By dashizz357

December 10, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

Crazy! you can rob someone & get less time. You took all his money, killed his career, now another brother sent to jail. Wheres PETA at when this same “pets” attack and kill or injury or children? He was wrong and paid his dues by being stripped of millions of dollars. I thought this was America people. Maybe he should’ve got the same lawyers that Paris Hilton and the rest of so called high class america gets.

By Tim

December 10, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

Renee:

There are quite a few deer hunters here at work, and I can assure you that every one of them keeps the meat. I don’t know of any hunter that just keeps the head and lets the deer meat go to waste.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 10, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

Billy Martin has got to be the worst lawyer in the history of law.

By Gandalf, the Grey

December 10, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

If so many blacks weren’t crimminals, there wouldn’t be so many in jail. It’s the culture….crime is ok…If my son gets arrested I’ll kick his a*!

By Mr.Wrestling #2

December 10, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

Did Vick not know dogfighting was illegal? Of course he knew it was against the law. He willfully broke the laws of this country. If there is an arguement with the law then change the law. The Vick defenders need to realize one thing, they are defending an admited felon.

By Lady T

December 10, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

If Chris Redman can sell insurance for 3 years and come back and start in the NFL on a Monday night….Mike Vick can sit out 4 years and come back and be a pro-bowler!!

The end is near folks…a pitbull’s life is more valuable than a human being. You have a blonde blue-eyed adult woman that molested a young teen and she gets probation.

Come on good ol boys and gals let’s hear you make excuses for the blonde child molester….

By Al

December 10, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this

It is way too harsh for a first time offender. It was driven politically.”

A perfect example of the abuse of power by our Government.

By KenFromCalifornia

December 10, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this

inquisitive, your accusation about who was attending/betting on michael’s dogfights is untrue. michael’s own homies said who was there. no doubt michael hadn’t quite reached the big-tymer status to entice the rwf’s that you claim he had in attendance. no, the only bigshots who were there was michael and whoever else had the money to cover his bets. another falcons teammate? another nfl player from a different team? now that michael realizes that those fbi lie detector machines really do work, we, the nfl, espn, and everyone else will find out which high-profile person was there.

By Master P

December 10, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this

Mike shouldn’t have gotten any time for this minor deal. The white man wants to keep the black brothers down—-that’s the only reason he’s in jail. White people do worse things all the time and don’t get any time. Wheatley killed a man and didn’t do any jail time. The system is racist against the black man! We need to hit the streets to protest this injustice!

By St. Louisian

December 10, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

I THINK MIKE WILL NOT HAVE TO DO ALL HIS TIME, I KNOW HE WILL COME BACK AND BE PICKED UP BY A BETTER TEAM THAN ATLANTA. WHEN THE FIRST GAME IS PLAYED WITH HIS NEW TEAM ATLANTA WILL FEEL THE BURN ! THEN THEY WILL WONDER WHY DID WE GIVE UP ON HIM ANYWAY? ATLANTA’S LOSS IS SOMEONE’S GAIN!

By Pop

December 10, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

People of God, please do not expect any compasion from folks who are the offsprings of the men and women who took babies from their mother’s arms and sold them. Most of these folks on this blog, are the children that you saw in the pictures of the black men hanging from trees. They were standing beside their fathers and grandfathers smiling for the cameras.

So please NEVER expect ANY kind of compassion from these types of folks.

By Bo

December 10, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

You people are ridiculous. It doesn’t matter if you think dogfighting should be legalized or if you’re a card-carrying PETA member.

Vick got RAILROADED.

“he got what he deserved”, “don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time”

That’s the whole point, you morons- The Feds INVENTED NEW CRIMES to charge him with. That’s the definition of unfair BS.

And I’m a white Saints fan from Biloxi, by the way.

By Andrew

December 10, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

For all the racists out there saying that this is white people coming down on black athletes, you need to shut up. He broke the law, but it seems a lot ‘you people’ don’t care for the law. Its not the same as hunting as the animals are killed right away, humanely, not tortured with electrocution or hanging as Vick did. And stop comparing this to murder and rape. Besides, it was a black jury that allowed OJ to get away with murder.

By Tonya

December 10, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

Does the punishment fit the crime? This question is for the people who claim to be spiritual, not the demonic spirits.

By Asand

December 10, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

White people like to see people punished? Yeah, for the crimes they committed. Black people like to use their race as an excuse to avoid punishment and responsibility for their actions. That is as fair as your statement. Idiotic.

By A.Pellom

December 10, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

I am a first time commentator. I am a vegetarian by choice. Nothing worse was done to dogs than is daily done to cattle, sheep, goats, chickens, fish, lobsters etc. If Mr. Vick had said he was going to make “hot dogs” out of the animals, he should have been treated as any other destroyer and consumer of animal flesh for the enjoyment of taste. alp

By hugh

December 10, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

Get this straight Vick fans—he should have gotten 10 years of weekly CORPORAL PUNISHMENT—DO YOU MORONS KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS??!!

Yes—weekly beatings with a whip—I would gladly volunteer to beat him bloody every week. The agony of those dogs cries out for atonement.

Evey dog that he killed has more dignity,honor and virtue than Vick will ever have.

By solution

December 10, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

I think Mike needs to marry a dog like that guy in India did.

By jaimlb

December 10, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this

THIS IS NOT A RACE ISSUE. THIS IS NOT A RACE ISSUE. THIS IS NOT A RACE ISSUE.

People bringing up race in this instance are just looking for excuses, a way to deflect attention from what a violent, sociopathic, heartless being he is. I think Vick is a terrible, not to mention incredibly stupid, person. If we all want to be treated like equals then we should all be glad to be held accountable to our actions and decisions, good and bad.

Vick got caught. And he’s evil. Suck it up.

Dodobrown, you sound as despicable (and incredbily stupid) as Vick—just because someone “owns” a living thing doesnt mean they have a right to mistreat it—unlike a car, it does have feelings and nerves and knows pain…but sociopaths don’t like to acknowledge those pesky realities. All they care about is their own self-enrichment, usually at the expense of other living beings.

By Ron Mexico

December 10, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

I used to wonder why the city of Atlanta was such a crime ridden haven for criminals but now I know. I had no idea there were so many dumb people in this city until I read this blog. Rather than agree that Vick committed a felony and he should accept the punishment they turn to the only thing they have, race. Well, all I ask is that you morons stay inside the perimeter.

By Inquisitive

December 10, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

Pay attention to this Black Americans. White Folks are putting Indians from India in jobs where you and I used to be. They required us to have good oral and written communication skills, yet these Indians can’t make a sentence that makes much sense. Indians are owning houses, cars, dry cleaners, dairy queens, gas stations. How can they suddenly do this coming from a country where they didn’t make $50 a month? The govt is giving them subsidies and employers are encouraged to bypass you and hire them. It’s another way of imposing slavery (economic slavery) on blacks. How many Indians are on the the ground in IRAQ fighting? Yet they are put above blacks as citizens in the United States. White Folks are going to pay for this wrong doing.

By Vick Supporter

December 10, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

TO ALL OF YOU DITCH DIGGERS: THE BIBLE STATES: DIG TWO AND DIG YOUR BIGGER AND WIDER, BECAUSE YOU WILL FALL IN YOUR FIRST….

AS FAR AS WHAT HE DID, NO, I DON’T CONDONE IT (HIS ACTIONS) BUT WE ALL FALL SHORT OF GLORY FROM TIME TO TIME.

SHUT, I BET IF THEY GO AND DIG A LITTLE DEEPER IN THE BACK WOODS ON THAT SAME PROPERTY WHERE THEY CLAIM TO HAVE FOUND THE DEAD DOGS; BUBBLE ‘EM WHOLE FAMILY COULD BE FOUND SOME WHERE AROUND THERE!

SO, TO MAKE A LONG STORY SHORT; HOW QUICK ARE WE TO FORGET ABOUT WHAT REALLY USED TO GO ON IN THOSE WOODS.

By Jay Black

December 10, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this

Whatever

Dany Heatley Ray Lewis Leonard Little Tank Johnson OJ Simpson Bill Campbell (even though he didn’t kill anybody, he deserved way more time than that) The cops that shot the 92 year old to death last year.

I gave you more than enough. Any more?

By B. Cummings

December 10, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

What a sick world we live in. I have never seen so many happy comments regarding the sentencing of Michael Vick. Have we forgotten, that Black people were killed for trying to register to vote. What is wrong with this picture? I am so afraid of pit bulls and most of the people responding are too. Yes, yes the punishment is too stiff for Michael and I pray that one day he will get a second chance to play football.

By