Michael Vick Released From Prison: On Behalf Of All Dogs And Friends Of Animals In The World...We Offer You The One Finger Salute

May 24, 2009

By Meghan Chavalier

Convicted dog killer and disgraced NFL star Michael Vick has been released from federal prison after 18 months behind bars for his role in a brutal dogfighting operation.

Pictured Above: Convicted Dog Killer Michael Vick's Mugshot Taken At Riverside Regional Jail in Hopewell, Virginia

Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison for his role in the operation and financing of the Bad Newz Kennels dogfighting ring. He also was suspended from play in the NFL, with Commissioner Roger Goodell writing that Vick's conduct in the dogfighting operation was "not only illegal, but also cruel and reprehensible. Your team, the NFL, and NFL fans have all been hurt by your actions."

Vick sparked national outrage after he admitted sharing responsibility for hanging, drowning or beating to death six to eight dogs that had performed poorly in fights he backed.

For two months, the suspended NFL star will be largely confined to his home and will wear an electronic monitor that allows federal probation officials to track his movements. He is expected to be released from federal custody July 20.

Vick will be allowed to go to his full-time construction job and will probably be allowed about five hours a week for other court-approved activities, according to Ed Bales, managing director of Federal Prison Consultants, an inmate rehabilitation advocacy group.

Permissible activities for inmates on home confinement typically include medical appointments, religious obligations and meetings with probation officials. No dinners out. No chilling at a friend's house.

U.S. Humane Society President Wayne Pacelle said Tuesday that he met with Vick in prison and that the NFL star wanted to be part of a campaign to wipe out dogfighting.

Why the Human Society is even thinking about working with Vick is beyond us. They obviously can't see that this is no more than celebrity spin control to make the world feel that he is sorry for what he has done. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I doubt he's worried about animals, and think he's more worried about getting back into the NFL and making millions of dollars.

Some things are beyond forgivable and what Michael Vick did is unforgivable as far as I'm concerned.

As an owner of five dogs and two cats, who would never even think about mistreating ANY animal, I personally will never forgive or forget what this man has done. It is disgusting.

In order to take a stand against people like Michael Vick don't buy any product he endorses, don't clap when he gets back into the NFL and heads onto the football field. Don't let him think that what he did will ever be okay with anyone who has compassion for the animal kingdom.

Look at the pictures of those dogs, and never forget what happened.

Click the banner below to find out how you can help put an end to dog fighting.