Vick pleads guilty in dogfighting case

By Warren Fiske

RICHMOND, Virginia (Reuters) - Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick was solemn as he pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday in a dogfighting case almost certain to wreck his football career.

Standing ramrod straight, Vick said "guilty" when asked by U.S. District Judge Henry Hudson how he would plead to the charges of conspiracy in connection with an illegal, interstate dogfighting enterprise.

Hudson said he would sentence the 27-year-old football star on December 10.

Vick spoke very little, saying only "yes, sir" or "no, sir" in response to questions from the judge.

After the hearing, his lawyer, Billy Martin, said Vick would make a statement soon.

"I think you will find he will talk about the acceptance of responsibility, talk about what he hopes will occur at probation," Martin told reporters outside the courthouse.

Vick has admitted he took part in an illegal, interstate dogfighting enterprise known as Bad Newz Kennels from 2001 through April 2007.

In the court documents, Vick said he knew dogs that did not perform well were killed and admitted to being involved in the killing of at least eight dogs earlier this year.

He said he bought property in Virginia to serve as the main staging area for housing and training pit bulls that took part in the dogfighting venture.

Vick, who has been suspended indefinitely by the National Football League, faces a maximum of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release.

Prosecutors have asked the judge to sentence Vick to between 12 and 18 months in prison if Vick cooperates with the government.

Hudson reminded Vick that he was not bound by the suggested sentence.

"I place a lot of importance on the government recommendation but I want it understood that I am not bound by that part of the plea agreement," Hudson said in court. "The decision is mine in regard to sentencing."

"If I decide you deserve five years, you'll get five years and you can't appeal that. Do you understand that?" Hudson asked.

"Yes, Sir," Vick responded.