NFL Star Quarterback Michael Vick Investigated for Alleged Dogfighting

April 27, 2007

©The HSUS

Dogfighting causes terrible wounds—and frequently death—in its canine participants.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick is being investigated for animal neglect and possible dogfighting connections.

On April 25, a search warrant was issued for a property owned by Vick, in Surry County, Va. According to reports, law enforcement authorities discovered dogs in a state of apparent neglect and malnourishment. The Virginia Animal Fighting Taskforce was on the scene. Officers discovered over 60 dogs, many with wounds and scars believed to be from dogfighting, according to sources.

A Disturbing Allegation

"The Humane Society of the United States has heard troubling reports for some time that Michael Vick has been involved in organized dogfighting, and we fear that this investigation may validate that very disturbing allegation," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS.

"We urge law enforcement to aggressively investigate this matter, and we further believe that anyone who harbors dogs for the purpose of fighting, deserves to be fully prosecuted their crimes," Pacelle continued. "Dogfighting is a barbaric activity that causes immense animal suffering and fosters violence in our communities. Our nation should have a zero tolerance policy for any form of staged animal fighting."

What To Do if You Suspect Dogfighting

If you suspect dogfighting in your own neighborhood, alert local law enforcement. Urge officials to contact The HSUS for practical tools, advice and assistance.  If you live in one of the states where dogfighting is still only a misdemeanor, write to your state legislators and urge them to make it a felony.  Write letters to the media about the cruelty and dangers of dogfighting. Write letters to law enforcement officials urging them to take the issue seriously.

The HSUS Offers Help

In a letter sent May 3, 2007 [PDF], HSUS President & CEO Wayne Pacelle offered NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell help in creating a zero-tolerance NFL policy against dogfighting.

NFL Commission Roger Goodell recently announced a new, stricter policy on conduct for NFL players and personnel. 

Dogfighting is illegal nationwide and is a felony in 48 states, including both Virginia and Georgia. Additionally, the U.S. Congress has just passed, and President Bush is expected to sign any day, a bill that strengthens the federal law against interstate dogfighting activities.

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