Dogging investigation of Bad Newz Kennels began in April 2007 with a property search in Surry County, Virginia, owned by Michael Vick, who was then a quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons football team, and further discovery of ring evidence dog fights. Over seventy dogs, mostly terrier pit bulls, with some said to show signs of injury, were arrested, along with physical evidence during some of Vick's 15-acre property search (61,000 m 2 ) by local, state and federal authorities.
The case attracted widespread publicity into issues of animal abuse and dog fighting. It also drew attention to illegal gambling and drug activity claimed by authorities often accompanying dog fights. Furthermore, Vick and three other principals were convicted on federal crime conspiracy charges and imprisoned. Vick was suspended by the NFL, ordered to pay Atlanta Falcons back part of its revenues, and lost a deal worth millions more. With another lender also trying to raise millions of dollars in debt, in July 2008, he filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection (reorganization).
Video Bad Newz Kennels dog fighting investigation
Overview
Investigation of the Bad Newz dog battle began in April 2007 with a property search in Surry County, Virginia, owned by Atlanta Falcons quarterback football, Michael Vick, and the subsequent discovery of evidence from a dog fights ring in Newport News, Virginia. More than 70 dogs, mostly terrier pit bulls, with several people saying showing signs of injury, were arrested along with physical evidence during some of Vick's 15-acre property search by local, state and federal authorities.
In July 2007, Vick and three others were indicted for federal offenses and state crime charges related to a perpetual criminal enterprise for six years of an inter-nuptial wedding ring known as "Bad Newz Kennels," based on a local nickname for Newport News, Vick's hometown. The allegations include Vick's direct involvement in dog battles, high-risk gambling, and brutal execution of dogs. Public cries result from widespread media coverage of details that include hanging, drowning, electrocution, "slamming," and shooting dogs. There was a public demonstration by supporters of Vick and animal rights activists. In hindsight, many companies that have paid for his support pull Vick's product from retail marketing when he is found guilty.
On August 20, all defendants on initial federal indictments including Vick have agreed to commit guilty mistakes based on bargaining agreements, seemingly avoiding facing possible additional and more serious allegations under the Struggling Organizations and Corruption Act. US District Court Judge Henry E. Hudson, who is not bound by the recommendation penalty in the plea agreement, has previously advised two defendants that aggravated circumstances involving the execution of dogs demand a revision of the sentencing guidelines. A single crime charge carries a maximum sentence of five years.
On November 30, Peace and Phillips were sentenced by Judge Hudson to 18 and 21 months in their respective federal prisons. Penalties are higher than those recommended by federal prosecutors, and include three years of probation under supervision after their release from prison. During his sentence, an attorney for Quanis Phillips argued that his client was from a culture where dog fighting was an acceptable practice. He further claims that Phillips is growing around it and it is a proving ground for young men to show their strength, adding "Dogfighting is an acceptable and acceptable activity in their world." They attend dogfights as youth. Later, after Vick signed his first NFL contract, "... there's suddenly money for these youths to get dogs... involved in this world."
Judge Hudson replied that while they were growing up seeing dogfighting as normal behavior, it did not vent the guilt in this case. When he announces a sentence that exceeds the guidelines and recommendations of the deal, he states:
- "You might think it's a sport, but it's so callous and cruel," he said. "I hope you understand that now."
At the November 30 hearing for Peace and Phillips, Vick was detained at the North Neck Regional Prison in Warsaw, Virginia where he gave himself up early while awaiting punishment for federal conviction on December 10, 2007. Vick received more severe punishment. sentences from Peace and Phillips after Hudson concluded that the lied Atlanta Falcons lied about his direct involvement in killing dogs and about the use of marijuana, detected in drug tests, and his greater role in criminal enterprises and lower cooperation during previous investigations. Taylor, who is alleged to have a greater role in the conspiracy than Peace and Phillips will also be sentenced on December 10, but, like Peace and Phillips, has agreed to testify against Vick in court before he also accepts the plea agreement..
In addition to federal action, parallel country investigations have also been ongoing since April 2007. Surry County prosecutor Gerald L. Poindexter later described the information contained in the federal appeals treaty as a "road map for indictments in Surry County." A plea bargain with a federal prosecutor will not have an official standing in a local case against one of four federal defendants. (Two danger concepts will not apply to state and federal overlapping cases). In September, 2007, the four people convicted in a federal case were also charged by the Grand Jury of Surry District on state crime charges relating to dog fighting under state law after the indictment was returned by a local jury in Surry County, Virginia. Vick faces two counts of crime under state law and his trial at Surry County Circuit Court has been set for April 2, 2008. The maximum penalty if later punished on state charges will be 10 years in state prison.
Unlike the other men, Vick is a millionaire and celebrity. While in Philadelphia he led the Eagles into the playoffs and picked up his first new support contract with Technology Not Equal. Unequal technology makes shoulder pads for the NFL and its players.
In December 2009, Sports Illustrated named Michael Vick and dog battle investigation as one of the top 10 sports news of the 2000s decade.
Maps Bad Newz Kennels dog fighting investigation
Business associates in the kennel business at Surry County property
In the next few months, media sources revealed that Vick had close relationships and business ties with three other people who did not seem to be relatives, but were involved with Surry County properties and/or his activities with a pit bull before April 25. Tony Taylor, Quanis L. Phillips, and Charles W. Reamon, Jr. Both Taylor and Phillips have drug-related brushes with laws; Reamon has several firearms incidents.
Charles W. ("C.J.") Reamon, Jr., is the niece of Vick's former coach, Tommy Reamon. It was reported that in January 2006 he paid a $ 50 fee to renew the Moonlight Road kennel license registered in Taylor's name with Surry County. Uncle Reamon, Tommy Reamon, who coached Vick during his high school football career in Newport News, described his niece as "a good boy who works for Vick." Reamon's coach recently accused news media of "trying to destroy" Vick, who by Newport News columnist David Teel is described as "a tired, transparent, and fake claim."
"C.J." Reamon has three beliefs related to illegal firearms or airport security, including being caught for lying about his criminal record when he was employed in security jobs at Norfolk International Airport (discovered during a "stinging" investigation), and an incident in August 2006 when he was caught carrying charge.357 SIG Glock to Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport terminal. In February 2007, "C.J." Reamon and Vick were together when Vick was charged with breaking a small fishing boat sticker in Norfolk's Western Branch Reservoir by a Virginia game warden.
ESPN reported that, not long after the initial attack in late April, Vick "threw Taylor from Surry property" and registered it to a real estate agent for sale. The 15-acre property (61,000 m 2 ) includes a large white painted brick house, a small swimming pool, and a basketball court. Four black painted outdoor buildings are located in the forest. Reported by local news media as under a sales contract for approximately 50% of the assessed value by a day or more from the list. However, according to published reports, on July 6, no transfer documents were filed with the regional clerk where the deed was recorded.
Local investigation, search challenged by cousin
Over the following weeks, Sheriff Surry County's Harold D. Brown and Commonwealth Lawyer (local prosecutor) Gerald G. Poindexter repeatedly responded to media inquiries with the assurance that they proceeded cautiously with investigations and prosecutions and whoever "they were" which evidence shows having acted against the law will be charged. According to the Virginia Code (3.1-796.124), illegal activity related to dog fighting (or supporting it) is a violation of crime under Virginia law. Other Virginia criminal laws also prohibit gambling, which has also been alleged against Vick by an ESPN source claiming to have seen Vick bets of $ 40,000 on a single dog battle. On May 31st, when asked by a news reporter for WAVY-TV if there was any evidence that put Vick on a dog fights, Poindexter replied "Yes".
On June 7th, Boddie, who recently moved from Surry County to Newport News, conducted an interview with a news reporter from a local television station and the Newport News newspaper Press in front of a nightclub in Hampton where one of his arrest has occurred. He accused a conspiracy by authorities originating from 2001, claiming the amount of marijuana he acknowledged on April 20 was not a justification for a search warrant at Surry County's residence, the local prosecutor's opinion of several different jurisdictions strongly objected, according to Daily Press on June 8th. Boddie accused the authorities of being dishonest about the amount of drugs he had and whether he had firearms when arrested on April 20, claiming that the authorities would do anything to make "[him] and [him] peep [people ] looks bad.
Federal investigations assisted by state police revealed
After weeks of upgrading reports in Vicker news media and new evidence and witnesses reported to the authorities, according to USA Today , on June 7, federal authorities, assisted by Virginia State Police, disclosed their own investigation, and start searching for additional properties. Surry County Lawyer, Commonwealth of Poindexter told USA Today that an official from the US Department of Agriculture Inspector General's Office informed him by phone at about 3 pm EDT on June 7 also advised him that the local authorities liked what he do, but are free to continue their own ongoing investigation. The media reports on WAVY-TV at 11 pm that night put Poindexter in Vick's house and property, apparently observing the search. Federal authorities, assisted by Virginia State Police, conducted an additional search on July 6, as reported by several news media sources. Federal and state police officials did not issue public statements at the time.
Federal court archive and additional search
The document filed in federal court in Richmond on July 2 and obtained by the Associated Press under the Freedom of Information Act outlines a multi-state corporation that fights dogs named "Bad Newz Kennels" who are suspected of operating from Vick property at least since 2002. To The event, participants and dogs travel from South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland, New York, Texas, and other states. At least three people are expected to be indicted. On July 7, Fredericksburg, Virginia-based Free-Lance Star newspaper noted that on Vick's website, she enrolled her birthplace as Newport News, "a.k.a. BadNews." On the same day, Constitution of Atlanta noted that Urban Urban Dictionary lists "Bad Newz" as the street name for Newport News. WAVY-TV (Portsmouth, VA) posted a copy of one of the federal court documents from July 2, and has made it available online in WAVY-TV online copy July 2 documents obtained on request Freedom of Information on "Bad Newz Kennels" Investigation of interstate dog combat.
Investigation status, billing
Federal
submission of July 2
The July 2 federal court filing alleged that Vick's property was used as "the main staging area for housing and training the pit bulls involved in dog fighting." A source close to the investigation told ESPN Len Pasquarelli that the events of Friday [July 6] "are very helpful in the overall and ongoing investigation of the alleged dogfighting ring on the property.... Remember, this is an investigation of what has been received companies that involve many people... From our point of view, it never focused on the individual and it still is not. "
July 17 indictment
On July 17, a federal grand jury charged Vick and three others on charges, stating that Vick and three others spent six years "deliberately sponsoring and exhibiting in an animal-fighting effort." Almost immediately, speculation began regarding the future of Vick in the NFL.
The grand jury also commissioned people by setting up a cage to represent dogfighting competitions, buying and training pitbulls in dogfighting competitions and "destroying or removing unselected dogs to live with ongoing joint venture animals." The case was handed over to Henry E. Hudson at the US District Court in Richmond.
According to an ESPN lawyer, the new "hard" federal law passed by the US Congress in April 2007 and signed by President George W. Bush on May 3, 2007 is used in many ongoing investigations about dogfights across the country. However, Vick and his code liberator are prosecuted under the old law, which carries lower penalties. Vick and code holders each face a $ 350,000 fine and six years in jail if convicted on federal charges. (On the Travel Act section of conspiracy allegations, he faces a maximum of five years in prison and a $ 250,000 fine.The dogfighting responsibility brings the possibility of a one-year prison sentence of $ 100,000, or both).
Vick's codefendants
The Virginian-Pilot reported that three others indicted were long-time property associates Vick, who was also known to be a conspiracy member suspected of being "Ookie" on federal charges.
- Purnell A. Peace (also known as "P-Funk" or "Funk") is Tony Taylor's cousin. He had drug-related beliefs in the 1990s. He called the Surry County Sheriff's Office in May 2007 to report burglary and furniture theft at Vick's Moonlight Road property. With his registered residence as Virginia Beach, media sources have published no information about him outside of what is contained in federal indictments and break-ins reports from May.
- Quanis L. Phillips (also known as "Q") plays football with Vick at high school in Newport News. The federal indictment claims that he, along with Vick and defendant Tony Taylor, bought four pit bull puppies around $ 1,000 in September 2001 from someone in Williamsburg, Virginia. He is listed as a contact to call to buy a dog on his website (no longer active) for "Vicks' K9 Kennels", which appears to be operated from the Surry property. The website, no longer active, says that they keep bulls, but "are not involved with dogfighting." The website is linked to MV7 LLC, a company affiliated with Vick. Atlanta Journal-Constitution identified Phillips as one of Vick's employees with MV7 LLC in an article on marketing shoes. On the now-defunct website, Phillips is listed as the person contacted to buy the dog. His criminal background includes the arrest of 1997 for possession of stolen property and a guilty plea in 1999 for possession of a violation with intent to distribute marijuana. In October 2000, he was convicted in Newport News for violating drug control laws, sentenced to one month in prison and fined, and punished for insulting the court and sentenced to five days in prison. In May 2001, he was convicted in Newport News of possession of cannabis with intent to distribute, and was fined.
- Tony Taylor (also known as "T") came to Newport News after serving two years in prison for drug trafficking in New York, according to a report published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He found the property at 1915 Moonlight Road in Surry County to build a place for homes and train pit bulls, authorities said. The court documents show he also helped buy four pit bulls in September 2001. In 2002, the document showed, he apparently executed at least two non-performing dogs in a fight test. He is listed as a registered agent for MV7 LLC, a company named after Vick's initials and jersey numbers, when it was organized in June 2002 at the Moonlight Road address. ESPN reports that the Surry District Treasurer has issued a valid license in April for the kennel and for breeding dogs on Vick property for Tony Taylor. Taylor was arrested in Newport News on alleged possession of cocaine in 1996; it was fired after he completed the substance abuse program and followed a year of good behavior. In 2000, a Suffolk City judge issued a warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear on charges of reckless driving and driving on a suspended license. In 2004, a veterinary clinic in Smithfield earned a $ 145.50 civil assessment against Taylor at the Wight County Island District Court.
Hearing and auditory hearing, warranty conditions
On July 26, all four pleaded "not guilty" to all charges against them during the trial before Judge Hudson at the Lewis F. Powell Jr. Court Building in Richmond, and the date of the hearing is set for November 26. USA Today reported that the four defendants were released without ties, but among the pre-trial conditions imposed on Vick by US Judge Dennis Dohnal in a separate hearing held on the same day that he submitted all dog breeding licenses or the kennel he may be. The four defendants are required to be under active court supervision, surrender their passports, refrain from traveling outside their immediate area without prior consent, and away from dogs, weapons, and each other. Peace, Phillips and Taylor had to undergo random drug tests, but not Vick, as he had no previous convictions. Peace and Phillips must also be subject to electronic monitoring through anklets. Taylor was ordered to undergo evaluation and treatment of substance abuse.
The prosecution plan for which the indictment was filed
The federal prosecutor announced plans to file a fictitious indictment at the end of August. According to a representative from the US District Court, a relentless indictment could mean new allegations and possible new defendants in the case. ESPN legal analyst Lester Munson said that Richmond's federal prosecutor's reputation, he anticipates that Vick will face more federal allegations. Munson also believed that the threat of a defeated indictment was intended to get the defendants to plead guilty and cooperate with the government.
Two hearings take a total of 25 minutes, which is typical for a court known as a "rocket map" for the speed with which the process takes place. It is unclear whether the same warranty arrangement will also apply to additional federal fees, if any result of the anticipated indictment is anticipated next month, or whether additional state charges will violate the terms of the guarantee.
Ready-made statements
After that, Vick issued a statement prepared through his lawyer, his first public comment since the indictment, in which he expressed his innocence, but apologized to his mother and colleagues. The guarantee terms theoretically make Vick free to play until the trial, provided he gets permission from the court to travel outside the immediate area of ​​his primary residence. However, Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank stated that Vick should leave his mind to play until his case is resolved.
Taylor pleaded guilty, sent "Summary of Facts"
On July 30, Tony Taylor filed a guilty plea before Judge Henry E. Hudson at the US District Court in Richmond. Taylor, 34, said he was not promised any specific punishment in return for his cooperation with the government. The Roanoke Times reported that Judge Hudson asked Taylor: "You plead guilty and take your chances, right?" and "You have agreed to cooperate fully with the United States, is that true?"
Taylor responded to every question, "Yes." Hudson set a penalty for December 14.
According to the Washington Post, in his "Summary of Facts" filed with the request and signed by Taylor, he admitted that he helped start "Bad Newz Kennels" with Vick and two other defendants in 2001 and participated entirely in the company before leaving in September 2004 after a dispute with Phillips "and others."
Taylor's remarks say dogfighting ring operations and gambling money "almost exclusively funded by Vick." He also said Vick paid over $ 30,000 to buy a property near Smithfield, Virginia, where additional houses and structures to train fighting dogs were built as the home of Bad Newz Kennels.
The Norfolk Virgin-Pilot newspaper noted that Taylor's defense documents depict eight matches he said Vick attended or sponsored between late 2002 and 2004, with dogs named Jane, Big Boy, Zebro, Magic, Tiny and Too Short. The group entered the name "Bad Newz Kennels" into operation in early 2002, according to the document. "At one point, the defendants obtained a shirt and a headband representing and promoting their affiliation with 'Bad Newz Kennels,'" the summary said.
The newspaper made copies of all 13 pages of "Facts Summary" filed with Taylor's defense and obtained under the Freedom of Information Act available online at: Tony Taylor's "Facts Summary" application document 7-30-2007. The special language that Vick granted virtually all funds and participating in the "ongoing criminal enterprise" in the defense documents sparked speculation by lawyers that Vick will face federal extortion charges under the Struggling Organizations and Corruption Act. There has been talk that the government may seek RICO indictments, based on certain "criminal sustained" languages ​​in the original indictment and in Taylor's defense treaty. The key element to prove extortion is the existence of a "criminal enterprise", and gambling is a violation that can be alleged under RICO. RICO is relatively easy to prove in court, as it focuses on criminal behavior patterns. If Vick is charged under RICO, he will face up to 20 years in jail and pay treble compensation.
Other defendants also plead guilty; Vick considers the option
On August 13, two other defendants, Damai and Phillips, also agreed to plead guilty under their own defense treaty, they will be sentenced in Hudson court in successive trials on 17 August.
The news media reported extensively that Vick had been given until that date (August 17) to decide whether to seek bargain offers; otherwise he will face a superior charge that will cover at least two federal indictments again. According to one of his public relations specialists, Vick weighed all his options with his legal team.
The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported on Aug. 15 that a federal grand jury in Richmond will begin hearing new allegations against Vick from a dogfighting case that began on Sunday 20 August. Munson suggested that Peace and Phillips' guilty plea put Vick in a "legal check," as their testimony, added to five other prosecution witnesses already possessed by prosecutors, making it extremely difficult for Vick's legal team to prove reasonable doubt in court.
According to the Journal-Constitution, Vick's legal team began talks with federal prosecutors about the possibility of a plea agreement immediately after fellow defendant Vick pleaded guilty. A spokeswoman for Vick's legal team said that the defendant's appeal surprised them.
ESPN reports that anything else in the defense negotiations is that words from Vick's appropriations should be made. He must make a detailed statement of the extent of his involvement in the operation, such as the specific method he uses to kill the dog.
On August 17, Peace and Phillips appeared before Judge Hudson at the US District Court in Richmond. They enter a plea of ​​guilt, plea agreement, and related statement of fact documentation. They also agreed to testify if the government asked him from them. Phillips warrant was revoked for failing drug tests.
Peace and Phillips were told that because of the "victimization and execution of the pit bull" described in court files, "upward departure" of the sentencing guidelines "is required in this case." The aggravating factors will be considered in punishment, which means they can face tougher penalties on their punishment by 30 November.
The documents submitted to the court and obtained by the news media under the terms of the US Information Freedom Act provide confirmation of sections from those contained in the previous Taylor defense agreement and also provide more details of Vick's role as a defendant. Copies made available by Newport News Daily Press at:
- Summary The facts of the Quanis Phillips defense agreement (PDF, 12 pages)
- Summary The facts of the Purnell Peace defense agreement (PDF, 12 pages)
- Purnell Peace defense agreement (PDF, 12 pages)
Co-defendant Quanis Phillips was jailed early after the August 17 appeal hearing because he had failed a drug test with existing monitoring equipment and regulations.
Vick pleaded guilty
On August 20, 2007 Vick pleaded guilty to allegations of a federal felony dogfighting conspiracy. Vick's lawyer, Billy Martin, released this statement.
"After consulting with his family over the weekend, Michael Vick has asked me to announce today that he has reached an agreement with federal prosecutors regarding the pending allegations against him.
"Mr. Vick has agreed to bring charges of guilt on the charge and accept full responsibility for his actions and the mistakes he has committed." Michael wants to apologize again to everyone who has been hurt by this problem. "
On August 24, 2007 it was announced that Vick had signed the defense agreement and issued a statement recognizing his participation and funding from the dogfighting ring, but maintaining that he did not place bets or take prize money.
Details of Vick's defense agreement are available when filed to court on 24 August. USA Today make copies available over the Internet in PDF files at:
- Vick plea agreement 8-24-2007
- Vick's summary of facts 8-24-2007
On August 27, Vick appeared before Judge Hudson and pleaded guilty. In the scheduled December 10 punishment, Vick faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $ 250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. The prosecutor asked Hudson to punish Vick for 12-18 months if Vick worked with the government as he had agreed in terms of the original recognition agreement. The provisions of the defense agreement include a clause in which Vick loses his right to appeal the sentence imposed on him. Although prosecutors demanded a lower sentence for Vick, Hudson could still increase the sentence to the maximum extent; Hudson had told two other defendants that the brutality was justified beyond the guidelines in their case.
Most of the defense treaties involve Vick working with federal authorities pursuing other dog fights and a complete allocation of his role in Bad Newz Kennels, including detailing his role in dog killings after a fight. Allocation proved to be a "sticking point", as both federal prosecutors and FBI agents reported that Vick gave contradictory statements about how dogs were killed, what role they were in the killings, how many dogs were killed, and other details. According to the reporter who spoke to Hudson after the verdict, Vick's pre-verdict behavior, especially during the FBI's polygraph given in October 2007 which showed that Vick was cheating when asked direct questions about killing dogs, was a factor in choosing sentence lengths.
Punishment
On November 30, Peace and Phillips were sentenced by Judge Hudson to 18 and 21 months in their respective federal prisons. Penalties are higher than those recommended by federal prosecutors, and include three years of probation under supervision after their release from prison. Taylor will also be sentenced on December 10, but, like Peace and Phillips, has agreed to testify against Vick in court before he also accepts the plea agreement.
The news media reported that the statement at the November 30 hearing made it clear that the defendant and Tony Taylor were leading Bad Newz Kennels. He guides others who are newcomers to a wretched underground world, according to the arguments presented at the US District Court during a verdict trial. A lawyer for Phillips argued before Judge Hudson that Taylor was known as a "human dog" as "an experienced dogfighter and trainer."
At the November 30 hearing for Peace and Phillips, Vick was detained at Neck Neck Regional Prison in Warsaw, Virginia awaiting punishment for federal conviction and his trial on April 2, 2008 on Virginia state allegations.
Vick was sentenced to 23 months imprisonment on federal charges on December 10, 2007. Tony Taylor, who was the first person to plead guilty, was sentenced to 60 days in prison on December 14, 2007, who was under penalty of no more than 6 months in prison. Allen, who sold several dogs used in surgery, received a trial on January 25, 2008.
Taylor was released from federal prison on March 20, 2008, with a 9 day holiday for good behavior. State trials for Taylor, Vick, Peace and Philips have been denied until the logistics associated with Vick, Peace and Philips transport are completed (each in jail in Kansas, New Jersey, and Florida).
Property disposal
The property used in operation, 1915 Moonlight Road has been purchased by Dogs Deserve Better, Inc., and is a dog rehabilitation center for chained and written dogs. This place is known as Newz Baik Rehabilitation Center, playing in the name of previous tenants.
Status
Investigation
Until August 18, the possibility of additional state fees is still under investigation. The Commonwealth of Parliament Prosecutor Gerald G. Poindexter and Sheriff Harold D. Brown in the county were criticized for the slowness, especially by WAVY-TV investigative news report, NBC affiliate at Hampton Roads. In response, they have indicated "doing it right" is more a priority than speed, and that they continue to work with federal authorities.
According to an ESPN lawyer, under Virginia law, Vick may be prosecuted if the authorities can show that he is "aware" of dogfighting activities on his property. According to the lawyer, "If it proves that the battle took place, it will be difficult for Vick to persuade anyone that he does not know." According to other media reports, researchers in Surry County have spoken to as many as 30 people. In June, Deputy Deputy Sheriff W.R. Brinkman, the local investigator's leader, said he had "more people to talk to." Sheriff Harold D. Brown stated in an interview published on June 28... "we need to find out whether he's one of the big players or not."
After the July 17 federal indictment, local authorities in Surry County say they may be able to prosecute a crime different from those charged in federal indictments. Poindexter and Brown say they continue to work with federal authorities. Both Brown and Poindexter told the media that they were shocked by the level of detail in the indictment, especially mentioning the dog allegedly executed by hanging, drowning and electricity. "It revealed to me I do not know anything about it," said Poindexter, according to Richmond Times-Dispatch. Poindexter says he thinks most people in the area do not know about the alleged fights. "This is a well-kept underground crime," he said. He also noted that he also learned a lot about the recent dog fights he had not known before.
Although federal investigations and indictments attracted most publicity in July and August 2007, local investigations and indictment considerations under state law violations also continue. Bargain plea with federal prosecutors will not have an official position in the local case. Two danger concepts will not apply to state and federal overlapping cases. The grand jury county is a group that would normally consider criminal charges filed by a local prosecutor under state law.
On July 24, Brown stated that he felt certain state charges for additional allegations in Virginia would be returned by the local jury during the session that began on September 25. However, no individual is referred to as a target to date. Until August 17th, there is also no indication of how much it might cost to the grand jury in Surry County. More than 50 dogs were confiscated, in addition to recovering carcasses, and a number of interstate battles, all with gambling activities, allegedly held at the Vick's Surry County plantation.
On August 17, Surry County Public Prosecutor Gerald Poindexter told WVEC-TV that the acceptance contained in the federal defense treaties filed by Purnell Peace and Quanis Phillips was "a road map for indictments in Surry County." The defense agreement involves the four people, Peace, Phillips, Taylor and Vick in dog battles and dog killing. It was noted in a previous media report that one of the agreements stated that eight dogs were killed jointly by Peace, Phillips and Vick in April 2007 (before the 25 April search).
Poindexter told the WVEC reporter that he saw two alleged crimes: dogfighting and assassination of companion animals. Maximum sentence in Virginia for each bill is five years. "We believe we have evidence and this is the first time anyone has acknowledged it, it is sad and embarrassing. she added. It is also unclear whether any state prison sentences will be allowed to run in conjunction with any federal time, or will be served in sequence. ESPN reported on August 18 that Vick could face up to 40 years in prison under state law.
Country Charges
After the guilty plea in the federal case, Vick, Taylor, Peace, and Phillips were charged on charges of state crimes relating to dog fighting under state law after the indictment was returned by a local jury council in Surry County, Virginia in September 2007.
Vick faces two counts of crime under state law and a jury trial at Surry Circuit Court will begin on April 2, 2008. The maximum penalty if convicted on state charges will be 10 years in prison. The other defendants were also given the date of the trial. Purnell Peace is scheduled to face a jury trial March 5, 2008, just like Quanis Phillips, but does not ask for a jury trial. Tony Taylor, who is not currently in detention, has been tried on 7 May. However, his fourth trial was denied until Vick, Peace, and Philips were released from prison, due to charges associated with transportation to the Virginia state court. (The trial of Taylor was also postponed until the other defendants completed their term of detention).
Vick, the latter pleading guilty to federal allegations, pleaded guilty to state allegations on November 25, 2008, paid a $ 2,500 fine as a result and court costs. The fine will only be paid if Vick fails to avoid problems for four years.
Michael Vick pleaded guilty to dog fighting on November 25, 2008 and received a three-year probation sentence and was ordered to pay damages of $ 3,636.97. Pernell Peace pleaded guilty to dog fighting on March 24, 2009 and received a three-year probation sentence. Anthony "Tony" Taylor pleaded guilty to dog fighting on March 24, 2009 and received a two-year probation sentence. Quantis Phillips pleaded guilty to dog fighting on May 6, 2009 and received a three-year probation sentence.
Dog disposition
On October 2, 2007, 127 dogs captured in April were still in animal shelters in Hampton Roads and central Virginia. The ASPCA evaluation shows that one animal, identified as # 2621, aggressive to the point of evaluation can not be completed and has a history of biting people. US District Judge Henry Hudson ordered to be euthanized. However, the US Attorney's Office in Richmond announced in court that 48 other canine teeth may be safe enough to be placed in strict conditions.
On October 16, Hudson acted on a government motion asking for animal legal expert Rebecca J. Huss, who is a Law Professor at the University of Valparaiso Law School in Indiana, to serve as a special guardian teacher to oversee the possible placement of 48 dogs, or their euthanasia. The judge also granted a request from the US attorney's office that each pit bull would be sterilized or neutered and fitted with a microchip. In a statement released by Valparaiso University, he said: "As someone whose academic efforts focus on the legal status and value of animals in our lives, I am honored to represent the interests of those at the heart of the case, the dogs."
In November 2007, Vick observed liquidating a portion of its real estate assets, primarily a dog plantation property near Smithfield, Virginia and one of its multimillion dollar homes located in Suffolk, Virginia, near Atlanta, Georgia, and the South Beach section of Miami Beach , Florida. ESPN reported on Oct. 20 that its near Atlanta is listed for sale at a demand price of $ 4.5 million. At the request of a federal authority before his sentence in federal court, he agreed to deposit nearly $ 1 million in an escrow account with a lawyer to use to reimburse the cost of confiscated dog treatments, most of which are now offered for selective adoption. basis under the supervision of a court-appointed specialist. Experts say some animals will need individual care for the rest of their lives.
On July 8, 2008, an article was published by Washington Post reporting the status of the dogs. At the time of this article, two seized dogs have been euthanized - one for aggression, as mentioned before, and one for health problems. Of the 47 remaining dogs, 22 were sent to animal shelters at Best Friends Animal Society in Utah for aggression against other dogs, and 25 were placed in foster care. The last few have been adopted. Dogs and therapists are featured in a DogTown episode titled "DogTown: Saving Michael Vick Dogs" on National Geographic Channel.
A program on WHYY on September 20, 2010 covers the disposition of Michael Vick's dog. One of the participants in the program is Jim Gorant who has written a book about dogs called Lost Dogs: Michael Vick's Dog and Their Rescue and Redemption Story .
Vick Defender
Many athletes generate additional controversy by making public comments in support and defending Vick. Stephon Marbury, a point guard for the Boston Celtics, called dogfighting sport and compared it with hunting and saying that we do not react the same when other animals die. Roy Jones Jr., a famous boxer, stated, "actually two dog battles can happen in the backyard or on the street.This happened in my backyard, my two dogs fought and one died." Clinton Portis, a star returning to Washington Redskins, declared, "I do not know if he fights dogs or not, but it's his, that's his dog.If that's what he wants to do, do it.I think people have to take care of their own affairs. "Deion Sanders, a former football and baseball star player and current commentator for CBS Sports, stated," Why do we charge him? Is he the leader? Is he a big fish? Or is there anyone else? The fight was allegedly happening on a property. which he bought for family members They found a carcass on the property, but I had to ask again, was he the leader? This situation reminded me of the scene in the movie New Jack City when drug Dealer Nino Brown was in the witness stand and eloquently said, 'This thing is bigger than mine.' Do we use Vick to get to the ringleader? Do we use him to end dogfighting in the United States? The only thing I can gather from this situation is we use Vick. "
Public comments about dogfighting, animal torture
During the furor arising around the investigation and prosecution of Bad Newz Kennels, even diverse figures such as hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons and Reverend Al Sharpton joined the Human Society of the United States (HSUS) and MAP - People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals -heid in a call to stand firm against animal cruelty, together declare:
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- "Today, we ring hoarseness to everyone: Standing for what is right, and speaking against what is wrong Dogfighting is unacceptable Hurting animals for human enjoyment or advantage is deplorable Cruelty is just plain wrong. "
Major League Baseball launcher Mark Buehrle of the Chicago White Sox commented that he hoped Vick would be hurt after he was restored to football. Buehrle, an animal rights activist, told MLB.com "he has a great year and a great comeback, but there are times where we watch the game, and I know it's bad to say, but there are moments in where we hope he's hurt...... everything you do to these dogs, something bad needs to happen to these people. "
Endorsements and products
The company that hired Vick to get support and produce or sell Vick related products turned out to react to negative publicity soon after the federal indictment. According to Norfolk Virginian-Pilot , Nike is Vick's biggest support deal. The company initially announced in July that it had "suspended Michael Vick's unpaid contract, and will not resell Michael Vick's products at Nike's current retail." Although the company says it does not terminate the contract, it seems to be waiting for a plea of ​​guilt or conviction to do so, because animal rights activists have urged the company to do so. However, Nike also announced suspending the release of the Vick V Zoom, a new line of shoes. On August 24, a few hours after Vick's confession details and a statement of fact were announced, Nike announced that he really ended his relationship with him. Adidas announced the Reebok division would stop selling Vick's football jerseys. The NFL says it has withdrawn all items related to Vick from NFLShop.com. Trading card companies including Donruss and Upper Deck soon followed with similar actions. Sportswear manufacturer based in St. Petersburg. Louis, Rawlings, who used Vick's resemblance to sell merchandise and make a model of football using his name, ended his relationship. On the same day, Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Dick's Sports and Sports shops have also stopped selling Vick-related items.
Some Atlanta Falcons fans donated T-shirts and Vick shirts associated with the Atlanta Human Society to be used as animal beds and cloth cleaning. The others produce dog toys that are chewed in Vick's picture.
In 2014, Nike contracted Michael Vick back to a support deal, and by early 2015 Vick confirmed reports that his signature Nike shoes would be back.
Timeline
See also
- The National Football League player is in controversy
- Dog battles in the United States
References
External links
- The Road to Recovery For Michael Vick Dogs - full audio report by NPR
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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