ChiefsPlanet - View Single Post

Kerberos · 12-10-2007, 10:01 AM

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/7544302

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Michael Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison Monday for his role in a dogfighting conspiracy that involved gambling and killing pit bulls.

U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson could have sentenced the suspended Atlanta Falcons quarterback to up to five years. Vick pleaded guilty in August, admitting he bankrolled the "Bad Newz Kennels" dogfighting operation and helped kill six to eight dogs.

Hudson already sentenced two of Vick's co-defendants to 18 months and 21 months — slightly more than prosecutors recommended, but still within the guidelines. Legal experts said Hudson's willingness to stick to the guidelines in those cases was a positive sign for Vick, but by no means a guarantee he will get similar treatment because so many factors could work against him. Defendants typically get credit for acceptance of responsibility and contrition. Vick apologized at a news conference after entering his guilty plea, and he will have an opportunity to speak directly to the court before he is sentenced. Vick's lead attorney, Billy Martin, did not respond to an e-mail inquiry about possible character witnesses and whether Vick would directly address the court.

12-10-2007, 10:01 AM	#12
Kerberos Chiefs Baby Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Henderson, NV Casino cash: $10000632	http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/7544302 RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Michael Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison Monday for his role in a dogfighting conspiracy that involved gambling and killing pit bulls. U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson could have sentenced the suspended Atlanta Falcons quarterback to up to five years. Vick pleaded guilty in August, admitting he bankrolled the "Bad Newz Kennels" dogfighting operation and helped kill six to eight dogs. Hudson already sentenced two of Vick's co-defendants to 18 months and 21 months — slightly more than prosecutors recommended, but still within the guidelines. Legal experts said Hudson's willingness to stick to the guidelines in those cases was a positive sign for Vick, but by no means a guarantee he will get similar treatment because so many factors could work against him. Defendants typically get credit for acceptance of responsibility and contrition. Vick apologized at a news conference after entering his guilty plea, and he will have an opportunity to speak directly to the court before he is sentenced. Vick's lead attorney, Billy Martin, did not respond to an e-mail inquiry about possible character witnesses and whether Vick would directly address the court.
Posts: 5,638