Michael Vick surrendered to U.S. marshals three weeks before he was to be sentenced for a federal dogfighting charge, and a legal expert said it’s unclear whether the move will soften his punishment.
“It’s kind of like reading tea leaves knowing what’s the exact impact on the judge,” said Ronald Bacigal, a University of Richmond law professor who specializes in criminal law and criminal procedure.
Vick pleaded guilty in August to a federal dogfighting conspiracy charge after his three co-defendants pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with authorities.
Federal sentencing guidelines suggest he could expect to serve a year to 18 months, but Vick, who has admitted bankrolling the Bad Newz Kennels, faces a maximum of five years in prison.
The Atlanta Falcons quarterback is scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 10 but worked out a deal “to voluntarily enter custody prior to his sentencing hearing,” according to a court document.
Vick’s lawyer, Billy Martin, explained the unexpected move as yet another step in the disgraced star’s public repentance for his involvement in a bloody dogfighting ring.
“From the beginning, Mr. Vick has accepted responsibility for his actions, and his self-surrender further demonstrates that acceptance,” 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.”
The order filed in U.S. District Court said Vick was taken into custody Monday “based solely on his desire to begin his period of incarceration prior to his sentencing hearing and not because of violation of any condition of his bond.”
In an e-mail sent to the AP, the U.S. attorney’s office confirmed Vick’s surrender but declined further comment.
Vick’s troubles began in April when authorities conducting a drug investigation of a cousin seized dozens of dogs, most of them pit bulls, from a Surry County property, along with equipment linked to dogfighting.
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