Vick surrenders to begin serving sentence before Dec. 10

Updated: November 19, 2007, 9:10 PM ET
Associated Press



"From the beginning, Mr. Vick has accepted responsibility for his actions, and his self-surrender further demonstrates that acceptance," attorney Billy Martin said in a statement. "Michael wants to again apologize to everyone who has been hurt in this matter, and he thanks all of the people who have offered him and his family prayers and support during this time."



Munson analysis

Quarterback Michael Vick and his lawyers might look at U.S. District Court Judge Henry E. Hudson's record and conclude that Vick might be in for a surprise on Dec. 10 when Hudson decides Vick's sentence in a dogfighting and gambling scheme. Story

Entering prison before he's formally sentenced Dec. 10 gives Vick a potential earlier start on putting his football career back together, but it likely won't lighten his sentence. Story




"It's kind of like reading tea leaves knowing what's the exact impact on the judge," Bacigal said. "I don't think there's any benefits except getting [the sentence] started. I would think he's purely thinking about timing as far as when he can get back to his football."

Vick has a lot to overcome.



Suspended indefinitely by the NFL without pay, Vick solemnly apologized for his actions before cameras in late August -- only to gain more negative attention when he tested positive in September for marijuana, a violation of U.S. District Court Judge Henry Hudson's order that Vick stay clean in exchange for being allowed to be free.


The gruesome details outlined in the federal indictment -- dogs were hanged, drowned and electrocuted -- fueled a public backlash against the Falcons star and cost him several lucrative endorsement deals, even before he agreed to plead guilty.


Vick and his co-defendants also face state felony charges. Vick has been charged with two state felony counts -- beating or killing or causing dogs to fight other dogs and engaging in or promoting dogfighting. Each felony is punishable by up to five years in prison.


Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press