Atlanta Falcons’ star Michael Vick was indicted in July 17 for charges related to dogfighting. The NFL player was charged along with three associates for allegedly running a dogfighting syndicate. When fighting dogs were not aggressive enough for Vick’s standards, the animals were allegedly shot, strangled, electrocuted and drowned. Such abuses against animals have long been banned in the American Constitution.

Vick, who signed the biggest contract in NFL history at $130M for the next ten years back in 2004, has yet to comment publicly about the charges against him. According to the indictment, the football star procured a property in Virginia to host dogfighting matches. The complaint also states that the accused were involved in buying and training the dogs as well as gambling.

The Atlanta Falcons had no idea that their star athlete was involved in such a practice. The National Football Association and National Basketball Association have both been cracking down on its athletes for the past few years in hopes of improving the leagues’ image when it comes to on-court and off-court behavior. Despite this current trend in curtailing unsightly behavior, the Falcons have yet to announce any suspensions for the embattled player.

Training camp starts on Monday for the NFL. Commissioner Roger Goodell has issued a statement that he has privately contacted Vick and personally told him to hold off attending training camp as the investigations are on going.

If proven guilty, Vick and his co-accused will be likely sentenced to at least six years in prison and a fine of $350,000. Despite all these shenanigans, the Falcons have decided to not make Vick forfeit parts of his salary. The organization tried to save face by publicly and explicitly declaring their disappointment and disgust over the negative portrayal of the NFL and the Falcons football club.

But Vick might lose money after all. Nike has decided to pull out the new shoe model made under the player’s footwear line.

Related Articles




Leave a reply