WASHINGTON—The Humane Society of the United States today released a statement in reaction to the news that Michael Vick, quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, is being investigated for alleged animal neglect and possible dog fighting connections.
Yesterday, a search warrant was issued for a property owned by Vick, in Surry County, Virginia. 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 up to 70 dogs, many with wounds and scars believed to be from dog fighting, according to sources.
"The Humane Society of the United States has heard troubling reports for some time that Michael Vick has been involved in organized dog fighting, and we fear that this investigation may validate that very disturbing allegation," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. "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. Dog fighting 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."
NFL Commission Roger Goodell recently announced a new, stricter policy on conduct for NFL players and personnel. For more on the NFL policy, go to http://www.nfl.com/news/story/10119182.
Dog fighting 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 dog fighting activities.
Facts:
- Other sports figures have been arrested for dog fighting including NBA's Qyntel Woods, and the NFL's LeShon Johnson.
- Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis and NBA star Latrell Sprewell have had pit bulls who have attacked people.
- Boxer Roy Jones Jr. is a known cockfighter.
- The U.S. Congress overwhelmingly approved legislation this month making the interstate transport of animals for fighting a felony crime. The bill has been sent to President Bush for his signature.
- There are reports of animal fighting crimes nearly every week in the United States. In March alone, raids in Ohio and California yielded dozens of arrests, the seizure of 64 dogs, 300 birds, $30,000 dollars in illegal gambling proceeds, guns and an explosive device.
- Dog fighting is illegal in all 50 states. Cockfighting is illegal in 49 states, with Governor Bill Richardson signing a bill to ban cockfighting in New Mexico last month. Only Louisiana allows legal cockfighting.
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Editor's Note: b-roll of dog fighting is available on request
The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization – backed by 10 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty -- On the web at humanesociety.org.
