Michael Vick was Wrongly Convicted!
Michael Vick was Wrongly Convicted!
Since this past Monday and more specifically for the majority of the Philadelphia Eagles sensational season, I have heard so many people touting Michael Vick. Oh yeah, “Michael Vick has really turned it around, “ etc.
And now, Barrack Obama, the President of the United States, the de facto leader of the Free World, thought it would be a good idea to chirp in and toss a little praise his way as well by taking the time to make a phone call (while on vacation in Hawaii) to the owner of the Eagles and commend him for giving Vick a 2nd chance.
REALLY!?!?
(Here’s your class act role model Mr. President)
I think anyone who thinks that Michael Vick has paid his debt and is a reformed individual needs to take a little walk down memory lane and remind themselves just what this so-called man was engaged in and willfully perpetrated.
Here are the facts:
* Michael Vick was a REGISTERED dog breeder.
* April 24, 2007: Michael Vick’s cousin, Davon Boddie, was arrested in Hampton, Va., on drug charges, leading police to obtain a warrant to search his home (owned by Vick) for other drugs and paraphernalia.
* April 25, 2007: While serving the search warrant, police discovered evidence of an alleged dogfighting operation, including rape stands, pry bars, treadmills modified for dog training, and a blood-stained carpet. Animal-control officers also removed 66 dogs from the property, 55 of which were pit bulls.
* Vick and his co-defendants began the dogfighting operation in early 2001.
* Fights staged on the Surry County premises had purses of as much as $20,000 or more at times.
* The formation of Bad Newz Kennels and testing of the dogs began in early 2002. According to the indictment, one of the dogs did not fight well and was shot to death with a .22 caliber pistol.
* In March 2003, after a pit bull from Bad Newz Kennels lost in a fight, it was executed by wetting it with water and electrocuting it.
* In April 2007, approximately eight dogs that did not perform well in testing were killed by “hanging, drowning, and slamming at least one dog’s body to the ground.”
Here is what Virginia law provides in terms of sentencing for animal cruelty related crimes:
In Virginia, a first offense that does not result in the death of an animal is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries a sentence of twelve months or less and a fine of up to $2500 or both. A person committing a second offense, or if the animal dies as a result of the first offense, is guilty of a Class 6 felony, punishable by up to five years in prison or, in the alternative, a prison sentence of less than a year or a maximum fine of $2500 or both. In addition, the owner of a dog or cat injured or killed as a result of cruelty is entitled to a damage award for the value of the animal or the damage done.
Just so we’re clear, Michael Vick was sentenced to 23 months and served 18. Hmm. Now, I am no math wizard, but that seems quite short of the potential maximum. Oh, and he did have to pay a $5,000 fine and another $100 in administration fees.
Why, you ask? Because Michael Vick was not convicted according the Virginia Animal Cruelty laws. Instead he was indicted in Federal Court and pled guilty to one (1), I repeat, one count of “Conspiracy to Travel in Interstate Commerce in Aid of Unlawful Activities and to Sponsor a Dog in an Animal Fight Venture”. An offense that carries a two to five year sentence. I am going to say this again because it’s important: ‘Vick was sentenced to 23 months and served 18 months’. Again, not quite two years and certainly short of the five year maximum sentence. But again, this is only for one count or offense. So no Mr. President, Michael Vick has NOT paid his debt to society. But, then again, your Secretary of the Treasury is an admitted tax evader. It must be nice to view right and wrong from your perspective.
One count. This is unbelievable. Between 2001 and 2007 Michael Vick sponsored dogs in eleven fights. Additionally, he traveled to four states to purchase eleven dogs. Again, could this not be construed as 22 counts? Even with Vick’s meager sentencing this would have equated to 396 months or 33 YEARS!! And even at an absolute minimum, why was he not charged with four counts of the incredibly weak “Conspiracy…”?
But better yet, if he had been truly tried according to Virginia’s Animal Cruelty Laws he could have been tried for twenty dog fights and nine executions. SIXTY FIVE YEARS! Instead, he was again allowed to plead out (while serving out his Federal sentence) to ONE count of dog fighting (the single Animal Cruelty charge was dropped as a part of the plea agreement) and received a three year suspended sentence for time served on the Federal charges. The prosecutor (Virginia’s Surry County Commonwealth Attorney General – Gerald G. Poindexter) didn’t feel that the costs associated with transporting Vick to Virginia from Leavenworth penitentiary in Kansas was worth it. There was also another $2,500 fine which was suspended as well. Nice job, Poindexter. I am sure the good people of Surry County think you’re a real legal eagle, huh?
Some more of Chris’ great math – If Surry County had actually tried Vick they could have charged him with those 29 offenses and reaped $72,500 in fines. Another area I am not an expert in, is travel logistics, but I cannot imagine it would come any where near $72,500 to transport Vick the 1,160 miles (I Google Mapped it) – I mean, that’s $62.50 a mile!? They could have fueled an Abrams M1 armored tank (probably one of the world’s worst gas efficient vehicles) for the entire trip for a mere $3,420.
Another side note: Five of the surviving dogs rescued from Vick’s compound had to be put down. He was not held accountable for those either. But, according to Virginia law, he absolutely should have been. That would have brought the potential charge count up to 34 and another $12,500 for Mr. Poindexter’s ridiculous transportation fund.
Many of you may think I am taking the far extreme position, and I am. Let me point out a few things that should sicken even the hardest of you that may be reading this. First, as if dog fighting isn’t vicious enough, the animals that did not meet Vick and Co. standards or lost their fights were executed. Now I do not mean that they were euthanized by a simple and clean (or slightly humane) method. No, these dogs were sadistically tortured and killed (at times by Vick’s own hands) using methods that required even a slight degree of premeditation and a strong degree of sociopathology – malice and forethought: HANGING, DROWNING, ELECTROCUTING, BLUDGEONED WITH A SHOVEL, SLAMMING THEM TO THE GROUND, et al. That kind of emotional detachment is truly frightening. If Vick and the others associated with Bad NewZ Kennels had done to humans what they did to these dogs, they would be mentioned in the same breath with Dahmer, Gacey, Manson, BTK and other notorious serial killers.
Vick is reported as having experienced an adrenaline rush and euphoric like high from his participation in this savagery.
Here’s a little tidbit for you:
“The FBI considers animal cruelty a predictor for violence and continued violent behavior… and is a considered factor when profiling serial killers.”
Nice, huh?
And if you can still overlook the glaring brutality committed by and on behalf of this man, then you seriously need to get your football shaped head out of your ass and consider the situation without Vick. Vick is just a man, he is not a football god, and he is not the savior of the Philadelphia Eagles, the NFL or the sport as a whole. There are hundreds of quarterbacks between the current NFL rosters and those in the many colleges and universities around our country. Most may not have the talent level of Vick, but fortunately (to the best of our knowledge) they don’t have the violent pathology either.
As ridiculous as this is, even the Humane Society of the United States is jumping on the Vick bandwagon and is considering sponsoring Michael Vick to adopt a puppy. Vick is reported as saying it would:
“…be a big step in the rehabilitation process. I think just to have a pet in my household and to show people that I genuinely care, and my love and my passion for animals; I think it would be outstanding. If I ever have the opportunity again I will never take it for granted,” Vick told NBC, “I miss having a dog right now. I wish I could.”
There should be a massive public outcry calling for the immediate and unconditional resignation or simple termination of HSUS CEO Wayne Pacelle. This is an outrage. I seriously hope that anyone who previously gave or is thinking about giving to the HSUS will better spend their money supporting the law enforcing ASPCA or even better their local shelter.
“Junkies want drugs and pedophiles want children.” It doesn’t mean we give them to them. Vick is no different. Vick’s sentencing prohibited him from owning a dog until 2012. This man should never be allowed to own a dog. Let him explain to his girls what daddy did and why they cannot have that cute little puppy and live with the full weight of his actions.
For whatever reason [read: greed] Vick has been afforded a great opportunity for a second chance at his life. But if he were just a regular Joe convicted of these or even far lesser offenses the President would not be so quick to applaud his second chance.
It is truly a shame that our current legal system does not provide stricter punishment for offenses like this. We tend to “rehabilitate” through lenient sentencing, counseling and half-hearted community service.
Here is a final parting image for you: (From The Lost Dogs by Jim Gorant, senior editor of Sports Illustrated)
“As that dog lay on the ground, fighting for air, Quanis Phillips grabbed its front legs and Michael Vick grabbed its back legs. They swung the dog over their head like a jump rope then slammed it to the ground. The first impact didn’t kill it. So, Phillips and Vick slammed it again. The two men kept at it, alternating back and forth, pounding the creature against the ground until, at last, the little red dog was dead.”
Michael Vick, you and your fans (including the POTUS, Surry County Commonwealth Attorney General – Gerald Poindexter, Eagles Owner – Jeffrey Lurie, and HSUS CEO – Wayne Pacelle) make me sick.
Most Sincerely,
Chris Durant
SOURCE DOCUMENTS (Court Docs):
1. Department of Agriculture Investigative Interview
2. Vick Federal Indictment
3. Vick Federal Case Statement of the Facts
4. Vick Federal Plea Agreement
5. Vick Federal Probation
6. Vick Federal Sentencing (slow loading and hard to read)
7. Vick Motion to Enter Plea (in VA) via Video Conference
8. Vick Virginia Plea Agreement
*** please feel free to link to this post or copy it’s contents to your page. ***
THANKS FOR READING.
Other Great Stories about Vick’s Dogs -
PETITION: To Remove Wayne Pacelle as CEO of HSUS
“Through Her Eyes” – Virginia’s tale
Michael Vick Deserves a Pet… A “Pet Rock” Join the movement to send HSUS CEO Wayne Pacelle Pet Rocks for Michael Vick to adopt.
Position on Vick from Former Director of Vick Dog Rehabilitation
Tell President Obama You Don’t Agree with him Supporting Vick
Vick’s Unpaid Dues – Why Dog Advocates aren’t moving on
Critter Comments
People for the Ethical Treatment of Pit Bulls
Join the “NO WAY Subway” Movement on Facebook
Join the “Boycott Nike for Signing Michael Vick” Movement on Facebook
February 1, 2011 at 3:07 pm
Chris. Just discovered your blog via a doggy friend. Wonderful thoughts on the arsehole that is vick.
Yes he’s served his time. Although i don’t agree with his conviction not including cruelty it is unfortunately way to hard to successfully convict on those counts be it in your country or mine (Canada). The reality is he abused, he tortured and he killed animals. In no way was it done humanely. He’s done his convicted time, he has the right to have a job. But the fact that people insist on putting him up on a pedestal is boggling to me.
SOmeone mentioned on your manson post that Vick if raised in better area wouldn’t be fighting dogs. No he’d be doing something else. Reality is although dog fighting exists in many circles Vick appears to have really only gotten into it once he had some good chunks of cash behind him. If he was buying family houses he was far from poor!
Cheers,
Krystl
February 1, 2011 at 12:32 pm
Simply put….RIGHT ON!!!! I wanted to get up from my desk and give you a standing ovation after reading your article and actually, I DID.
Sincerely impressed,
Suzan C. Justice, CCH
January 31, 2011 at 7:57 pm
Chris, great article. I’m halfway through “The Lost Dogs” now and it has revived some dormant hostilities towards the scumbag Vick and the sports entertainment industry in general. Reading all the comments was like riding a roller coaster; ups, downs, etc. It amazes me that people have resorted to race, childhood issues, parental roles, stardom, etc. in lieu of addressing the accountability for the crimes that Vick committed. I would suspect these arguments are consistent for any crime committed by a high profile non white member of American society. I won’t unpack that further, as I imagine it’s probably not a profound realization for anyone reading this (and I’m sure the same folks would jump right back into the chance to start a race argument all over again).
Thank you for taking the time to write this piece and keep this reality visible as sponsors and mass media drown the issue over his “ability” as a sports entertainer. This subject is such an important tell as to the morality of the modern culture that we live in today. People choose entertainment over the importance of animal life. Rephrased, people believe that Vick, as a sports entertainer, is more valuable in that capacity than the negative outcomes from his passion for violently killing animals, which then makes it easy to state claims that he served his time, paid his dues, etc. These folks simply want to wake up Sunday, make their popcorn, sit in front of the TV and entertain themselves through mass distraction, delivered via organized sports. For me, I’d rather walk my rescued pit bull and English bulldog instead, which I respect more as “members” of society than Vick or any of his supporters.
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” Ghandi
January 29, 2011 at 11:53 pm
Thank you so much for this page! I completely agree with everything you stated. I have even in the past mentioned the same thing about cruelty to animals being a stepping stone for serial killers and sociopaths. I have in the past donated to both the ASPCA and the HSUS and after reading this article, will never donate to the HSUS again.
I think the fact the so many “big wigs” seem to want to back Vick is disgusting. I hate that people in general seem to think of themselves as better or more important than dogs (and other animals). This is why some people are so quick to forget what Vick really did. I think the NFL (and the NBA for that matter) needs to be tougher on these people. I think there should be a no tolerance policy on drugs and felonies. These men make millions of dollars to be in the spotlight and have kids look up to them. Therefore, people should not be able to just look the other way when they do something horrific.
If Vick had done any of that to a person, people would be very upset, but since it was only to dogs, who cares? It’s sick, he’s sick, and the people that support him are sick.
January 28, 2011 at 7:52 pm
My family have 3 dogs and we love them so much. Any person who tortures an animal as faithful as dogs is mentally sick. I hope someone or an organization like aspca or peta will appeal the case to put Vick into prison for 30 years. He should not be allowed near a dog or any animal for the rest of his life.
January 28, 2011 at 8:06 pm
If I’m not mistaken, the HSUS, PETA and the ASPCA all thought that Vick’s remaining dogs should be killed as it was not possible to rehabilitate them. All three of the “biggies” have been proved wrong. Many of Vick’s dogs are living peaceful, normal lives, thanks to the people who rescued and worked with them.
January 28, 2011 at 8:27 pm
I know that PETA and HSUS had that position. The ASPCA however held the rehabilitation “when possible” position, and it is my understanding they worked with BAD RAP, Best Friends, and others to find homes and foster when appropriate.
January 28, 2011 at 8:40 pm
You may have me on that one, however if you Google Oreo’s Law/ASPCA you will see how the dog Oreo was killed by the ASPCA when a sanctuary had offered her a place to live out her life, safe from the abuse she suffered most of her life. So, even when you think you “should” be able to trust large national agencies to act in the best interest of our companion animals, you can’t trust them at all. PETA has a 97% kill rate at their “shelters”. I’m no longer a fan of most of these organizations, and support LOCAL No-Kill groups, which here in Eugene, Oregon, do not include the county run animal control or our “humane” society. Sorry this is off topic, but I am so disallusioned by these organizations.
January 30, 2011 at 11:50 pm
PETA actually thinks all pitbulls need to be eliminated because they say that pits and pit mixes are to violent for anyone to own. They are for full BSL laws forbidding anyone to own one. This from a group that says dont eat cows or chickens. They are ok with killing dogs. Very sad!
January 28, 2011 at 5:29 pm
Thank you Chris for getting down to the nitty gritty and telling people what we should be hearing. I am so TIRED of hearing how Vick is becoming a better person. How do we know that? Is there some kind of reality show that lets all of us see what kind of life he lives off the field? Does he go home and pray for all the dogs he murdered?
Every life is worth the same. God created everything with a life. Dogs are here to love us unconditionally, how dare we take advantage of any living thing like Vick did?
As for his sentencing, I can’t even start to explain how outraged I am that he got away with …well…murder! I agree with many people- An eye for an eye- let him see what it’s like to be thrown in a ring to be ripped apart, or electrocuted or drown. What would he think if his adorable little face was scared and ached with open wounds? Being able to own a dog is out of the question! NO WAY! He should have to sit down and watch these dogs (that survived) be reconstructed on the operating table. He should have to sit down and explain to his little girls what he’s done and why he’s done it. Heck, they’ll figure out what kind of person he is when they grow up and Google him…
For what he’s done to all those dogs, I’m surprised he’s allowed to even have custody of his children! What happens if they get out of hand, or don’t live up to his standards?
I did a large thesis paper on serial killers in college. They do start off small, with mice, squirrels, birds, stray cats….they work up to dogs, and some often buy larger animals and abuse them further. Then it starts with a certain obsession…little girls or boys…or young women. There is something that is missing in their brains. And it will never come back.
That said, Vick will never be rehabilitated. How do you rehab a murderer? How can you let him get away with it?
Chris, again, thank you. I will post this on my facebook ASAP. Even though this blog cannot right his wrongs, it will make more people aware of what kind of “hero” football player they are watcing on TV.
January 28, 2011 at 5:34 pm
And for everyone who believes that Vick is a changed man and that it’s perfectly fine to make his millions in the NFL and own another (soon to be abused) dog for his children’s sake….
Try looking into that dogs eyes in the picture above….and try telling the dog sorry for all of your pain and suffering and loss of a healthy normal life …daddy just needed to make his money.
January 28, 2011 at 7:55 pm
Excellent, EXCELLENT points, Kerri. Thank you for reading and for sharing your insight as well.
If you haven’t read “Through Her Eyes” that is a little piece I was inspired to write for the Vick children. Something Daddy could read to them so they understand why they can’t have that cute little puppy right now. There should be a link to it at the bottom of the “Wrongly Convicted” article.
Chris
January 28, 2011 at 8:07 pm
He just needs to be short and clear: “You can’t have a dog because Daddy is an asshole.”
January 28, 2011 at 8:21 pm
January 29, 2011 at 10:13 am
Thanks Chris
I went home after work yesterday and found my little jack russell intently watching Animal Cops Miami on Animal Planet (we leave the TV on for him while we are at work and he loves watching Animal Planet). I sat down to watch it with him and coincidentally, it was about dog fighting. It just made my stomach hurt even more. What can people like us do to stop this? It seems like, if we wait for the authorities to deal with this, it will be too late for many dogs out there 
January 30, 2011 at 12:03 am
I completely appreciate all you posted and completely agree with it all. Some of what you said completely reiterates what I said in my post. All living things should be considered equal. My dogs are my babies and I would hurt anyone that hurt him and it’s a shame not all people feel that way about animals.
January 28, 2011 at 3:29 pm
Listen, EVERYONE knows what he did wrong, I am not saying it is okay because it is not, BUT EVERYONE MAKES MISTAKES and the right thing to do is let it go, it was years ago. he is doing things to move on and so should all of you people. He is a great football player and that is what he was praised for not being a dog killer. Seriously get a life and go live it, stay out of other peoples business. …..oh BTW NO ONE EVER SERVES THE WHOLE TIME THEY WERE SENTENCED DUMB ASS”
January 28, 2011 at 4:00 pm
Thanks for your reply and your insult, Geoff. I appreciate that. And your information, the protection and welfare of animals IS my business as much as it should be the business of any responsible adult.
And I am quite well aware that most (not “NO ONE”) do not serve out their full sentence. For racketeering which is pretty much what Vick pled out to, the average percent of sentence served is 87.8%. Vick served out 78.2% of his. So, to your very weak point he served almost 10% less than the meager average for his type of crime. But you are missing the point of my article. I certainly would have thought that you would have picked up it with your superior intelligence. Vick was not convicted for the things he SHOULD have been – those vile and torturous things that were well documented throughout all of the various pieces of evidence and testimony in the federal case. He got off on those.
Second, you said it was “YEARS AGO”. I am guess you are probably 23 by your cutesy email address. So maybe in your mind THREE WHOLE years is a very long time. It ain’t! Charles Manson has been in prison for 39 years and he’s 76 years old. Maybe we should let him out too. I mean hell, how much damage can an old man do? Right?
Lastly, I really don’t care if “he is a great football player”. If that is how you judge the character of a man, you are one sad and shallow individual indeed. You go on and worhsip your football idol Geoff. I for one am sorry for you.
Chris
January 30, 2011 at 12:08 am
Definitely, what if it was your life or the life of a loved on that happened to? I’m a nurse and have worked in corrections. Mancy child molesters serve LESS than 5 years in prison. Does that mean the family of that poor child should just forget it? They served their meager time and it was years ago, so get over it. No. But again, who cares, they’re only dogs right?
January 28, 2011 at 3:24 pm
M. Vick needs to go back to jail and finish his sentence for all the counts!..makes me sick..can this be sent to the white house so Obama can read this?…
January 27, 2011 at 8:22 pm
Hey listen Chris,
I’m sorry you lost that $4,000 in that dog fight, but Vick did tell you his dog was the champ! I mean, I know it was your last penny, your entire life savings BUT in all fairness, we ALL did tell you your dog was going to lose. So, I understand the anger & your frustration, but to be honest bashing the man isn’t going to fix that problem. This blog (if one could call it that) is not the answer…I advise seeking professional help asap (now would be best) & talking through your issues man! You have a gambling problem, you were right there when the dog fighting was happening & did nothing & now you want to act like it was so bad, you can’t imagine the horrors! Hell, I seem to remember a time when you killed one yourself, said it best be you since he was your prized fighter. Get help man, clean yourself up (’cause you look terrible on the top of this page) & call me, we can hang. No dog fighting, if you’re no longer game, just smoke up or beat a hooker or two, remember that time in Orlando! Good times, man, great times!
Stay classy, man c’mon you’re better than this!
Your boy,
Desmond
PS. my number is still (407) 382-5968. Look forward to partying again, you crazy bastard!
January 27, 2011 at 9:59 pm
If for no other reason than the fantastic creative writing (not to mention I do not censor any of these) and the fact that I love a good satirical piece when I read one, here you go. APPROVED!
January 27, 2011 at 11:01 am
Chris is it unbelievable to me that you don’t know that military dictatorships who seize power by force are often referred to as “de facto” leaders and not out of respect because they really ARE IN FACT leaders. You need to brush up on the meaning of racism to. Acknowledging people are of a certain race isn’t racism, but giving one race preferential treatment over the other is. Oh and of course this is amusing to me as well. If not, it’s just a waste of my time.
January 27, 2011 at 12:02 pm
George –
You said:
The President of the United States of America is also “often” referred to as that and he is “IN FACT” the leader of the free world. Are you saying that he is not? You never have clarified your position on that since the beginning. Do you believe as you mentioned earlier that President Obama is an illegitimate President? Of course I don’t believe that is your belief, but I also find it hard to believe that someone with your apparent intelligence cannot see beyond your self created absolute; that there can be only ONE interpretation and only ONE meaning to a particular word, phase, or term. Quite often words/phrases can take on exact opposite meanings, they are referred to as “contronyms”. For instance, if I were to say something is “bad”, I could mean that it is in fact bad, or I could be saying “damn, that’s really cool!”. Same word, exact opposite meaning. Shall we try another? How about “Pay”? Pay, is the money I earn each week, but it is also what I do when I spend money. Weird, huh? Anyway, moving on…
In terms of my understanding of racism, I will simply say this:
I do not in my day to day life and did not throughout my article seek to categorize or classify men by their skin color. That is something that you did and continue to do. And just to clarify, you did not acknowledge them as black men you specificially pointed out the fact that they are black. Why? What makes that necessary except to exacerbate your own negative racial views? I tend to see a man simply as a man, not a black man or a white man or a red, brown, or yellow man – just a man. Now if that makes me a racist in your book then I think your definition and understanding of racism is tainted and skewed – possibly beyond repair.
And lastly, explain to me (again, because I must have missed this) how or where I gave any race preferential treatment over not just “THE” (because there are many) other but any other. Again, these are things that you alone seem to focus on. I don’t get it.
Respectfully,
Chris
January 26, 2011 at 1:54 pm
I like how this guy singles out Vick (a black man) to get infuriated with how the Justice system has always worked, before there was a Michael Vick, while referring to Obama (the first black president, democratically elected) as the “de facto leader of the free world” (on what basis???) and then is surprised when people accuse him of being a racist. Really? I don’t understand why people even consider arguments from an obvious jack@ ss, regardless if he’s a racist or not. I mean, if you don’t care about being considered a racist, don’t take issue with it when you are. And if you do, be smart enough to not give obvious fuel to peoples fodder–if in fact it is fodder!
January 26, 2011 at 7:06 pm
I am sorry George…I didn’t understand a word of what you were saying…If there was a point in your post…I missed it, completely
January 26, 2011 at 7:32 pm
I am confused as well. Is there a point to your post that is relevant to Michael Vick choosing/planning/enjoying the torture and death of sentient life? Would not matter if he was purple with pink dots – the man is a psychopath.
January 26, 2011 at 7:22 pm
I like how I never mentioned color aside from the notable exception of the “little RED dog”. I further like how you brought up the fact that “Vick” and “Obama” are black. I like how apparently that is your issue not mine…. at all.
But what I don’t understand is this:
1.) “de facto leader of the free world” (on what basis???) – are you saying that you do not believe that President Obama is “in fact” the leader of the free world? And what exactly is your basis for that?
2.) “regardless if he’s a racist or not” – I am really confused here. Are you saying that I am, or that I am not. You lost me. Sorry.
3.) “And if you do, be smart enough to not give obvious fuel to peoples fodder–if in fact it is fodder!” Again, I am lost – Is this directed at me or the other readers? Or are you just opining to yourself? Please clarify.
4.) Where in that entire article did I say “the Justice system has always worked, before there was a Michael Vick…”? I think I need to go back and re-read my own article.
Here are the opinions I stated in the article. Anything not listed here is a FACT. I welcome any exceptions you may find:
A.) “I think anyone who thinks that Michael Vick has paid his debt and is a reformed individual needs to take a little walk down memory lane and remind themselves just what this so-called man was engaged in and willfully perpetrated.”
B.) “So no Mr. President, Michael Vick has NOT paid his debt to society.”
C.) “Nice job, Poindexter. I am sure the good people of Surry County think you’re a real legal eagle, huh?”
D.) “Many of you may think I am taking the far extreme position, and I am. ” – actually that is more of a self fulfilling fact. But anyway…
E.) “That kind of emotional detachment is truly frightening.”
F.) “Nice, huh?
And if you can still overlook the glaring brutality committed by and on behalf of this man, then you seriously need to get your football shaped head out of your ass and consider the situation without Vick. Vick is just a man, he is not a football god, and he is not the savior of the Philadelphia Eagles, the NFL or the sport as a whole. There are hundreds of quarterbacks between the current NFL rosters and those in the many colleges and universities around our country. Most may not have the talent level of Vick, but fortunately (to the best of our knowledge) they don’t have the violent pathology either.”
Author’s Note: A good portion of those ‘other’ players I mentioned are in fact black.
G.) “There should be a massive public outcry calling for the immediate and unconditional resignation or simple termination of HSUS CEO Wayne Pacelle. This is an outrage. I seriously hope that anyone who previously gave or is thinking about giving to the HSUS will better spend their money supporting the law enforcing ASPCA.”
H.) “This man should never be allowed to own a dog. ”
I.) “For whatever reason [read: greed] Vick has been afforded a great opportunity for a second chance at his life. But he were just a regular Joe convicted of these or even far lesser offenses the President would not be so quick to applaud his second chance.
(I’m going to highlight this because I think you missed it) It is truly a shame that our current legal system does not provide stricter punishment for offenses like this. We tend to “rehabilitate” through lenient sentencing, counseling and half-hearted community service.”
J.) “Michael Vick, you and your fans (including the POTUS, Surry County Commonwealth Attorney General – Gerald Poindexter, Eagles Owner – Jeffrey Lurie, and HSUS CEO – Wayne Pacelle) make me sick.” – and by the way, those last two guys…. They’re WHITE!
Thanks in advance for any clarification you can help provide so that in the future I can omit such obviously derogatory and broad based statements.
Most Sincerely,
Chris Durant
January 26, 2011 at 10:14 pm
I like how I never mentioned color aside from the notable exception of the “little RED dog”. I further like how you brought up the fact that Vick and Obama are black. I like how apparently that is your issue not mine…. at all.
But what I don’t understand is this:
1.) “de facto leader of the free world” (on what basis???) – are you saying that you do not believe that President Obama is “in fact” the leader of the free world? And what exactly is your basis for that?
2.) “regardless if he’s a racist or not” – I am really confused here. Are you saying that I am, or that I am not. You lost me. Sorry.
3.) “And if you do, be smart enough to not give obvious fuel to peoples fodder–if in fact it is fodder!” Again, I am lost – Is this directed at me or the other readers? Or are you just opining to yourself? Please clarify.
4.) Where in that entire article did I say “the Justice system has always worked, before there was a Michael Vick…”? I think I need to go back and re-read my own article.
1) So you label someone “de facto leader” and need me to define de facto for you? Don’t use the word if you don’t understand it’s usage.
2) Simply put, maybe you’re a racist, maybe you’re not. I personally can’t judge that from just one of your writings, but I could have told you that you were going to get the accusations when you decided to write a piece about a black athlete while questioning the legitimacy of the first black president. I mean, who does that? That is, question the legitimacy of any American president. Yeah sane people questioned Bush’s legitimacy but that was after that whole recount fiasco down in Florida. I think there is a difference.
What relevance did referring to Obama as a “De facto” leader serve to your article? Seems to me like a cheap shot you just needed to take. Why? I don’t know. Maybe you voted for someone else. Or maybe there is no coincidence that you sound like one of those “birthers”, with their veiled racism.
3) Could have stated that better. Point is, if you’re going to write on the internet and don’t wish to be stereotyped, don’t do half the battle for “us”.
4) You didn’t state that. I did. Maybe you didn’t know it, but Mike Vick isn’t the only American to ever get offered a plea bargain. It’s quite common, actually.
January 27, 2011 at 1:50 am
Okay George I am only engaging with you because I am actually enjoying this. With that said, let me address your numbers.
1.) Of course I do not need for you to define it for me. I used it. You’re the one who seemed to be confused with your “on what basis?” statement. So that we are clear, this is not just some cool pairing of words that I concocted to question the validity or “legitimacy” of President Obama (and also please notice that I have never referred to him as casually “Obama” as you. I do respect the man and he Office he holds). The term has been around and used as a title of deference, I believe, since the days of John F. Kennedy. The fact of the matter is that the United States is the most powerful nation in the world, and most certainly in the free world. As such President Obama IS the de facto leader of the free world. I am sorry if you do not think so.
2a.) Once again, I have never referred to color (other than the aforementioned) “little red dog”. However, you have opted to identify men (Michael Vick and President Obama) with color designations? Why? Who does that? I’m pretty sure you have an idea of who does that, don’t you?
2b.) I actually had to look up “Birther” – and I am still lost at what I have said/written that is racist. I think you may have really just gone way off course with the de facto statement, but I could be wrong.
3.) You’ve lost me on this one too. I “could have stated [WHAT] better”? And who is “US” and why is that in quotations?
4.) I am well aware of our legal system and its faults and shortcomings. That is why I stated: “It is truly a shame that our current legal system does not provide stricter punishment for offenses like this. We tend to “rehabilitate” through lenient sentencing, counseling and half-hearted community service.” I am further aware that plea bargains are a common practice in criminal proceedings. That doesn’t mean that I or any other citizen should be content with the status quo. I think (my opinion, again) that for Vick (or anyone else who committed the vile atrocities that he did) to be allowed to plead guilty to one very weak charge of “Conspiracy” when there were over 34 offenses directly related to “Dog Fighting” and “Animal Cruelty” is an absolute abortion of our judicial system.
5.) Lastly it has occurred to me as I was writing this response that is it you, not myself who is the racist. Now, I don’t know what color you are and quite frankly I don’t care. But I did realize this:
a.) You are the only one of us who has continuously referred to people by their color.
b.) You have attempted to make this article about race, when there is no mention of race or even culture throughout it.
c.) You have repeatedly suggested that I am a racist – closeted or not – and decided to stereotype me as a “Birther” – which according to you is a racist.
d.) And quite frankly you are the only person who has made these accusations. I have had other posters comment on other historical race related events, but even they didn’t call me a racist.
As always, just my opinion.
Chris
January 23, 2011 at 6:31 pm
ok let’s raise our hands here, how many of you get a big thrill at the killing and torturing of dogs? to people who say they were just dogs, or just pit bulls, what kind of logic is that. how many of you if you had millions of dollars to spend would kill/torture dogs in your spare time??? no one… oh… well, a product of what kind of twisted environment made him do that? serial killers start off killing and torturing animals. does vick have to kill and torture a person or a child for you people to WAKE UP to what he is??? should charles manson learn how to play football and get millions of dollars now???
January 23, 2011 at 4:01 pm
thank you sooooo much for this !!!
January 23, 2011 at 3:43 pm
The next time you choose to write an article about murder and tortured, think about the native americans and Africans that were tortured at and by the hands of white people. Entire races and culture removed from existence. I hope to hear back from you. Until then.
January 23, 2011 at 3:56 pm
Obviously you did not read all of the various comments, because I have already addressed this. But thank you again for mentioning color and bringing race into this, because the ONLY color ever mentioned on the article is “RED” – as in the little red dog that was beat to death. Quite frankly you are beating a worn out drum, one thing has absolutely nothing to do with the other. I am not condemning Vick because he is black, if you read the article without knowing who Vick is you would not know that he is black, there is no mention of that.
So that we are clear, YOU brought race into this with your shallow and short sided vision. You, not me. But I would also tell you to look no further than Rwanda or Darfur for even more examples or murderous torture and genocide. And those are committed by Africans against Africans. What are YOU doing to stem that vicious tide of atrocities?
Acts of cruelty against man have gone on since creation. I do not condone them, but I cannot change history. I can, however, speak out against the abuses I see happening now. And I am! This case is one of those, to me.
Thank you for your reply.
Chris
January 26, 2011 at 12:34 pm
America does it’s fair share of going into countries to resurrect them with proper democratic governments and Christian beliefs.
However, America tends to stay clear of African affairs because those African nations still feel allegiance to England. American’s don’t hear about their country helping Rwanda/Darfur, etc. and therefore don’t feel any sort of attachment or need to help, or at least not as much as other affairs of which we are directly linked to.
To single out Michael Vick for his fraction of a jail sentence seems like you’r neglecting everyone else in the legal system who manage to find ways to get shorter sentences. It happens every day. It happens to people who aren’t football players, or Hollywood actors. Maybe your next article should be on the poor standing of the American judicial system, and not one individual in particular.
January 26, 2011 at 1:46 pm
Excellent point Chris and I will certainly look into that, as I do believe it is a concern. However, as for this one individual, I didn’t single him out. The President of the United States did. I simply brought to light facts, that the President, while he should of known, before making the statements he did, seemingly did not know or just chose to overlook because of a successful 2010 football season.
That’s all. But thanks again for your valued opinion.
Chris
January 23, 2011 at 8:45 pm
Colour has NOTHING but NOTHING to do with THIS article it is about Content of Character PERIOD. It is about a few brutal twisted , sick INDIVIDUALS.
January 25, 2011 at 6:11 pm
Blackman, this article is not about the abuses to other races, it is about the atrocities that Michael Vick committed on innocent animals, not just one time but many, many times. Try to stay on task.
January 26, 2011 at 1:40 pm
You have missed the whole point of this article. In order to effect change, single issues often have to be addressed individually. Single issues NEED advocates or else we would spend our days philosophizing and theorizing about all the world’s problems, but never actually effecting change. Case in point, the issue at hand IS Michael Vick and while there are bigger issues that can be derived from this issue…let’s not get carried away.
And for THE LOVE OF GOD…this is NOT A RACE ISSUE
January 28, 2011 at 3:17 pm
Seriously blackman,why are ye bringing (RACE) into this topic eh?…it has been shoved down my and my childrens throats of how the Native American Indians (my 3 children are 1/2 native) and African Americans were brutalized by (Whites),let me tell ye something mister,my own people (Irish/Scottish) too were brutalized by the WHITE MAN but I and my peoples are not pushing it down others throats,this topic is about Vick,I dont give a poppycocks he is black,so wot,it was wot he did that brough national and comdemenation down on his head so stick to the topic or say nothing at all!
January 23, 2011 at 10:29 am
i’ve got an idea. if i’m gonna forgive michael vick because “he only killed dogs”, then i think i ought to forgive joseph mengele, because after all, “it was only jewish kids”. your right, vick can play football pretty good, and mengele was one hell of a doctor.
the fact that we as a people even use something like a person’s ability to entertain others as an excuse for what they’ve done, or even an excuse for that person not being in jail or worse, means that our world is pretty messed up.
January 23, 2011 at 3:38 pm
Ends don’t justify the means, as means don’t justify the ends. In both cases, it was disgusting, but one involved people and the other animals. Just because his actions were horrific doesn’t mean he caused tons of atrocities to humanity. The reason he has that chance again.
Don’t look much deeper than that.
January 22, 2011 at 6:26 pm
i agree with what you have to say on this matter.He sould not even own a stuffed animal.He sould have gone to jail and done the time like you or i would.. But he has big dollars.. thank you and i well look forward to reading more… thank you..
January 21, 2011 at 11:29 pm
Great article, Chris. Massive kudos for speaking and spreading the truth.
People like Vick and his buddies make me sick to my core. Even if Vick could control himself enough to keep a dog without physical abusing it for the sake of his kids (which I highly doubt), it would still be lacking in something hugely important in its life, and that is the love, respect, and protection of its owner.
January 21, 2011 at 11:18 pm
Dear Mr Durant: I’m a pit bull, chihuahua and cat rescuer from NJ. I’m writing to Thank you for helping the world understand the facts and reveal the true nature of Michael Vick, the sick individual who I believe will never be rehabilitated and should never be allowed to own a dog or any other pet. I pity his children but not enough to allow a pet in that household. I will share this far and wide with all my facebook friends from the US to as far as -taly, Iceland, China and Indonesia (a girl there asked me for this story!). Please put me on your mailing list! Xox Norina
January 21, 2011 at 3:33 pm
He did jail time, now he is back doing a job, not living off the state like many other poor people who have kids just for free money/food. Did the time, now making his own.
January 21, 2011 at 3:38 pm
GOOD FOR HIM!!! Sorry about that whole playoff thing, but better luck next year.
And for the record, I have no idea what that poor people and kid statement was all about. I don’t really see a correlation between welfare and the torture and murder of innocent dogs for entertainment. But that’s just me.
Try this one then… Through Her Eyes.
Maybe you’ll like that better.
January 28, 2011 at 3:19 pm
Well said Chris
January 23, 2011 at 8:55 pm
Vick didn’t do a DAY for dog fighting. For brutilty killing living, breathing, feeling BEINGS for FUN. Oh and being poor and trying to actually raise your kids is not a VICIOUS CRIME. There are many reasons why some people need government help and it does not make them MONSTERS.
January 20, 2011 at 4:06 pm
Sorry Jordan but hunters do not focibly breed, torment, and mutilate their prey for days, weeks & months on end. Also to the person who stated that mr. Vick grew up in this environment please know he did go to high school and college so one would presume he learned right from wrong at some point in his life. He was once quoted as saying that he would escape the violence of his neighborhood by going fishing. By definition he is a sociopath. It is well know serial killers usually start by tormenting animals at a young age. Vick is not a child. His own father condemnded what he was doing in 2001 amd would care for the dogs he abused. His mother defended him. By the way before anyone makes a race comment I’m black. If our president wants to forgive him that’s his choice but I don’t have to. Neither does anyone else. Re-read Mr Durants article and look at the picture also read Mr Durants other article “Virginia” and think about it. As for Sweetie and comment about God and Jesus, God does not condone cruel sadistic behavior. Just ask YOUR priest, pastor reverand etc. if you are truly religious you would know that is the work of the devil according to your religion. And please don’t push your religious ideology on everyone. Most people in the world believe in reincarnation of the soul & therefore treat all living beings with respect, but I suppose they are all wrong? Also please stop with the comments about Rotties, I have one and she’s a sweetie as was my pit who was a rescue she had been use as a bait dog. Think before you write such nonsense. Thank you Mr. Durant for an educational and informative article.
January 20, 2011 at 5:06 pm
Thank you Sarah for your wonderfully articulated position. And the compliments didn’t hurt either
Chris
January 20, 2011 at 5:15 pm
Thank you Sarah!
January 28, 2011 at 3:24 pm
Thankye Sarah for wot ye have said here,too bad other posters will not get it unfortunately,when I read and saw photos of the rape bench I was bloody well horrified,they had her teeth pulled and allowed her to be raped,to me Vick will not change,the persona he is putting on today of which I think is for media only will only pacify those that think he has changed,Gawd I hope he is not allowed to ever own another dog again be it a poodle or pitty!
January 19, 2011 at 9:55 pm
Michael Vick is a SICK man. What he did to the dogs is sickening. This is not about race, this is about a man who is mean and disturb.
What a great article. This needs to be shared with all dog lovers in this country. People do not know what he really did. This documents the whole thing and it will make you sick.
Open your eyes everyone. Vick tortured, drowned, electrocuted and killed his beloved dogs. His pool has scratch marks in the side. The marks are from the dogs that he threw into the pool to drown.
Vick’s actions were deliberate and planned. He fought dogs and he is a Horrible person. There is nothing nice about him. He deserves nothing good in life and he should not benefit from the NFL.
January 19, 2011 at 9:03 pm
That man who brought up race is a moron! We are in 2011 why cant people drop the race card? I thought we have moved on from there.. im Green so you cant say im defending any one race. I think pulling the race card with anything is just something someone does when they have nothing better to say. now with that out of the way i loved your article and im very glad to see someone finally do this. I finally asked a vick fan of why he thinks the man has changed and he said because of his actions compared to his previous actions. I think asked him if he has ever met the guy and he said no. my point like many of yours is just because the man changed on the feild doesnt mean he has changed his ways. He has paid someone to tell him what to say what not to say and how to act to look better from his past actions. He wants to make that $$ so fake it until you make it applies here. im starting to ramble because this really gets me heated as i see shit like this far to often in the rescue world. he needs to be sentenced for his wrong doings or kicked out of the NFL this man isnt a HERO! plan and simple.
January 19, 2011 at 8:57 pm
while I in no way condone any of Vicks vicious acts against animals Im not going to take dogfighting out of the context of all criminal acts. Is cruelty to animals to be taken as equivalent to murder? Manslaughter? Rape? Should it carry more or less punishment to the drug pusher that sells to a person…maybe a youth that overdoses and dies?
Before I consider how a man is punished for crimes against animals I consider how a man is punished for crimes against people…even innocent children..first. Given that you can drive drunk and be convicted of manslaughter if you kill someone…then get off with that same 5yr or less sentence Vick received for dogfighting/killing theres something else wrong with the system. Or maybe your equating human life with that of an animal in which case you’re a dumbdonkey…
January 19, 2011 at 9:16 pm
I did not take dog fighting out of context or compare it to any of the other crimes that you mentioned. I did however state what Vick could have been charged with and what the relevant sentencing could have been based on the actions detailed in the court documents.
Your argument about punishing a man for crimes against animals being weighed in relation to crimes against man doesn’t make sense. The two have nothing to do with one another, just like no particular murder case is the same as another murder case. Each crime has a state or federal mandated sentence affiliate with its offense. I will say this, yet AGAIN, Michael Vick has NEVER served a SINGLE day in jail/prison for “dog fighting” or “animal cruelty”. So in that respect I do agree with your second to last statement. And for the record he was sentenced to 23 months and served 18. Short of the five year max you mentioned.
But then again, I’m just a dumb donkey.
Chris
January 20, 2011 at 2:10 pm
I don`t consider animals “equal“ in the sense of them getting up in the morning to go to work, pay the bills, or even fix food for themselves. But I think that killing an animal and killing a person should be justifiably punished the same. So your basically calling me a dumbmonkey? True, children cannot defend themselves. Animals can`t either. I think that the system should be equal in the punishment of killing a dog/killing a human. If anyone wants to beat a dog I think they should answer to the doglovers, someone wants to beat a child or adult then they should answer to the human rights activist. Now when I say that, I mean that some of us were put on earth to protect the lives of animals, and some were put on this earth to protect humans. I say leave it at that. Animals can`t speak out for themselves, children can`t defend themselves.
But hey, I`m just a 15 yr old……..what do I know?
January 21, 2011 at 11:32 pm
Well said, Pitbull lover.
15 and wiser than many adults I know.
January 23, 2011 at 3:01 pm
“I don`t consider animals “equal“ in the sense of them getting up in the morning to go to work, pay the bills, or even fix food for themselves.”
Then how do you consider them “equal?”
” But I think that killing an animal and killing a person should be justifiably punished the same.”
What’s “justifying” about that reasoning? Just because it’s the same action doesn’t belittle what was destroyed. If a person kills a rabbit, and another kills a 15 year old, there’s a clear difference of “worth.” “Worth” being what has the potential of serving the best for “Humanity” as a whole. We create that worth, as I’m sure animals determine ours.
“If anyone wants to beat a dog I think they should answer to the doglovers, someone wants to beat a child or adult then they should answer to the human rights activist. Now when I say that, I mean that some of us were put on earth to protect the lives of animals, and some were put on this earth to protect humans.”
This is precisely why there are laws, everyone has their own perceived morality, so it comes down to a society setting the guidelines to what is morally acceptable. To avoid chaos, I hope it’s never the way you want it to be. Facing any crime would be at best the worst.
Sensationalism is quite a problem in animal activists. It’s great to love animals and ensure their safety but don’t stretch for the outlandish.
For some extra thoughts:
If there was a little girl on one side of the road and a squirrel on the other which way would you swerve your car if you had to?
What would society as a whole do?
Would it be considered inhumane if someone without hesitation swerved towards the squirrel?
Now, what if that little girl was you instead, would it be acceptable for you to be indifferent of which way you swerved?
January 23, 2011 at 3:13 pm
Excellent arguments and very valid points. But rabbits and squirrels are not the same as dogs. Dogs (and cats) fall under a special class – “companion animals”. This is not to say that I myself value a dog’s life over that of a human, but I can honestly say that that determination would be made on a case by case basis and depend quite heavily on the person in question. I could provide a list but it would include the usual suspects and certain behavioral groupings that quite frankly (in my humble OPINION) do not deserve to live among the rest of us.
Thanks for your well articulated position.
Chris
April 17, 2011 at 12:05 am
So if you say crimes against animals should be treated the same as crimes against people do you also suggest since people can not be owned then animals should not be owned as well? Jeffry Dahmer killed and at people should the same fate he suffered be that of the people who who eat meat? Some of you would be in trouble riding in your cars with leather interior or going to your local steakhouse.
For the record very few hunters hunt for survival. They can go to Kroger and buy food or just have a salad. There is no need to stuff a fish, bear, deer and put the head on the wall. PLeasure and Profit. Just one they government has found away to regulate and tax.
As far a Charles Manson he assisted in violating the rights of humans who are protected by divine law and the Constitution. As it currently stands animals are not protected by the Constitution. If you feel there needs to be an amendment then ask for a Constitutional Convention and ask them to make an amendment to say all men, and all animals are created equal. But I’m guessing the people at McDonald’s and KFC wouldn’t like that.
January 23, 2011 at 8:57 pm
People that abuse animals usually end up brutizing people also. Have YOU looked at the stats on this? Wake up.
April 17, 2011 at 12:09 am
Stats also indidicate that those who become serial killers are usually like to be men of European decent between 18-45.
As much as in the news I have not heard any evidence of Vick brutalising a human being. No DUI’s, no fights, no domestic violence, no child abuse, no rape allegations.
January 19, 2011 at 4:13 pm
you people kills me. give him a dog for his kids as long as its not a pit. Oh did you hear about the 2 rotwielder attcking a 80 yr old man, where were those dogs owner. Katrina hit Lousiana and the help came for dogs, there was a picture of human (black people) on the back of a truck packed. and then comes this picture of a greyhound bus full of all breeds of dogs, You people are so full of crap. in that picture of vick with his finger stuck out did you hear what he was “called” hell no and if it was me i would have***** let me leave that alone. A man in New York was killed by a police officer. the police officer claimed he though he pull out his stun gun. Right . and to here you people talk about vick and dog fighting, we as American are still fighting against each other and to bring on this nonsense about vick and the dog thing. people every day are dog fight, cock fighting bull killing and to top this off Sarah Palin is killing deers and moose, and she had a TV show. how twisted is this world. it ok for “whites” to kill animal but as soon as you hear about something a black man or woman has done OMG the media the people goes ballistic!! over 200 years ago thats all the white man did was kill black people and yes it has changed but some white people would still try to kill blacks if they could…and you all wants to keep up this mess about vick and “HIS” dogs! I read someone post about knowing Jesus. Jesus died on the cross for us (humans), dogs has no soul, and if you really believe that dogs has souls you need to talk to your pastors preacher priests, cause they don’t. I love my dog dearly a Boxador and he is a house dog, but i’ll be damn if i put my dog or anybody elses dog b/4 any human on this earth.
January 19, 2011 at 5:35 pm
Its not a race thing!!! If a white guy did it and was in the same situation I would be just as outraged!! No one is pissed off cause he is black!! We are pissed cause everyone thinks its no big deal!! ITS A BIG DEAL!! As for Sarah Palin its legal to hunt. I am okay with hunting as long as you use the meat that you kill. Yes there are still people fighting with each other but that does not mean you have to use and abuse dogs.
January 19, 2011 at 6:17 pm
Thank you for your reply, unfortunately you and I will be forever on opposing sides of this particular argument.
And thank you for bringing RACE into this. And so that we are clear YOU did, not me. Because if you read the article not knowing who Michael Vick is, he could just as well be ORANGE. In fact the only reference to ANY color in the entire article is right here….
And I’m not really sure if you picked up on this from reading the article, but Michael Vick NEVER served a single day in jail/prison for “dog fighting” or for “animal cruelty” and certainly not for the innocent dogs he tortured and killed.
And thank you again for the history lesson on America’s past race relations. Let me add these to your list as well so that you can be even more informed next time you decide to speak about such things:
1.) Nazi Germany killed in excess of 13 MILLION Jews
2.) Stalin’s Forced Famine – 7 million Russians
3.) Pol Pot / Cambodians – 2 million Cambodians
4.) Rwandan Genocide almost 1 million Africans killed by Africans
and many, MANY more…
Chris Durant
January 19, 2011 at 9:32 pm
I am in rescue and have been for a number of years. The longer I do this, the more I dislike the “human” race and what we are capable of. I would not equate the life of a human to that of an animal; I believe that an animal’s life is worth more because of their unending ability to continue to love us unconditionally despite what is done to them by us humans. From my perspective, we need to respect all sentient life and not think we, as humans are above, even superior to every other species.
Just think, with all our self importance, we could be someone’s science experiment, living our lives in a petrie dish.
January 31, 2011 at 10:39 pm
well said!!!
January 19, 2011 at 9:57 pm
This is nothing to do with race. This is about a sick man. My father always said. An Asshole is an Asshole not matter what the color of their skin is.
Vick is an Asshole who killed dogs.
January 20, 2011 at 2:23 am
sorry for you my darling sweetie but you dont know the fuck what you are talking about if you have a race issue get over it, yes so Vick is black whoopy bloody doo da, he didnt think about that when he brutally killed and mauled and abused those animals, he is not being judged because he is black but because of what he did and he is getting away with it, believe white people also go through this, do get off your high chair and deal with it.
and yes dogs do have souls, dont they also feel pain, you say you love your dog, but you are one of the many “animal lovers” out there that have a dog for conveniece or for their kids happiness.
we ” animal lovers” would do anything for our animals and yes put our dog before any human on this earth, and i dont need no pastor to preach his rubbish to me to tell me a dog has no soul. amen
January 28, 2011 at 3:29 pm
Dam straight Shelly,I too put my 8 moggies before meself or my husband,I chose to bring them into my life and with that said it is I that is bound and determined they live a fullfilled and loving life,and truth to be told if I saw a man bleeding to death or a animal bleeding to death it would be the animal I help 1st!
January 20, 2011 at 2:22 pm
I think bringing up about blacks/whites is way overrated. We are all equal. Of course there is still racism. But don`t you think it works both ways? SOME whites hate blacks and SOME blacks hate whites. What Vick did, yes he is black (THAT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH IT) but what Vick did was horrible to say the least. Yes, whites have killed dogs too, and its all very sickening. But the way Vick killed them, that had alot to do with it. He didn`t just kill, he brutally picked up dogs and slammed them against the wall, beat them with a hammer, electrocuted them, and drowned them.
I will have to be thrown in prison before I EVER let Vick get another dog. I think he is way to far gone to be “rehabilitated“!! He shouldn`t ever have another dog, at all. Period. No questions asked. I don`t care if the dog he wants has bit 50 million people. That dog doesn`t deserve Vick.
Oh and p.s.-doesn`t matter if dogs don`t have souls. They can`t talk either, does that mean we shouldn`t protect them from insane killers?
You bet I`m a crazy dog rights activist. And I`m happy that way!!
January 20, 2011 at 4:33 pm
Here we go with the racist thing. Why is it whenever a black person does something wrong and gets caught the enitre black commuity has to play the racist card??? Really, is that all you’ve got?
Here’s how it is Sweetie…
Michael Vick is a public figure. An NFL star. But, most importantly, a role model. To kids and adults alike. He should have taken this in to consideration when he got involved in dog fighting. But he chose to become a criminal. He didn’t just stand around and watch these fights and watch these poor dogs get beaten. He willingly participated. He even went as fas as to throw his own personal pets into the ring just for fun. He personally beat and tortured dogs to death. And for what? Entertainment and money! And don’t tell me he didn’t know what he was doing was wrong. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want my child looking up to someone like that.
Do you honestly think that God put animals on this Earth to be beaten and tortured? What if it were your dog that Vick threw into the ring with his pit bulls that he trained to be killers? Could you sit there and watch?
This is NOT about some black guy committing a crime. This is about a sick and twisted individual doing horrific things to defensless animals. If it were ANYONE else with celebrity status or not, white or black or, purple or yellow, we’d still feel the same way. IT IS NOT OK TO BRUTALLY TORTURE ANIMALS FOR ENTERTAINMENT, MONEY OR ANY OTHER REASON! WHAT IS SO FREAKIN HARD TO UNDERSTAND???
And now you think it’s ok for him to have another dog? Seriously? Let me ask you this, would you give a child to a convicted child abuser? Yes, this IS the same thing. Once an abuser, always an abuser.
January 21, 2011 at 11:37 pm
Well said melissa, thanks.
March 16, 2011 at 11:11 am
For the same reason that everytime a white person does something wrong and gets caught, they have a medical excuse.
January 18, 2011 at 2:39 am
he wants a puppy for his daughters…..
Let him explain to his girls what daddy did and why they cannot have that cute little puppy and live with the full weight of his actions.
Sory Vick, ur attitude costs your girls not to be able to hold a pup in their arms…. I feel sorry for them, but the slightest misbehaviour by this pup, it might be slammed against the floor again….
January 17, 2011 at 10:20 pm
I have had enough of hearing about Michael Vick. He is a vicious, violent criminal. He cleaned up his act and has been rehabilitated? BULLSHIT! He did only what he needed to do to get back to playing football and making his undeserved millions. Someone needs to brutally beat him to death and throw him in the dump. Then we don’t need to worry if he’s allowed to have another dog. And then we can focus on finding all the other filthy rotten bastards who are still running dog fighting rings.
January 17, 2011 at 10:22 pm
DAMN!!!
January 18, 2011 at 10:56 pm
Chris Durant-I love you!!!!
January 18, 2011 at 11:50 pm
(blushing) Thank you, Terry!!!
January 15, 2011 at 10:14 pm
[...] was really his punishment. I will share the following posting of Christian Durant from his Blog Christian Durant’s World. And why do I do this? Because I am sick and tired of reading things that misinform readers! A [...]
January 15, 2011 at 3:35 pm
This is something that makes me unbelievably upset. I have NEVER understood people that are cruel to animals or to anyone for that matter. To be able to do the things that Michael Vick did and admittedly ENJOYED it, tells me that he is a sick individual.
Yes, we are to forgive others and God forgave us, however, forgiving someone and allowing them to have another dog after what he did to them is quite another story. I don’t think that a pedophile should be allowed to babysit children, I don’t think an alcoholic should be allowed to be a driving instructor or a bus driver because the addiction to alcohol will always be with them whether they are sober or not.
I don’t believe that Michael Vick was punished or paid his debt to society as of yet. I cannot know what is in someones heart, but I can tell you that he does not seem sincere to me. He seems to me that the only thing he is sorry about is the fact that he got caught.
President Obama should never have made that phone call about Michael Vick doing a great job at turning his life around. We don’t know that for sure. Of course Vick is acting as though he is sorry and all, but again, I just don’t believe it.
He didn’t “just” kick a dog (which I don’t condone either), he electrocuted them, beat them, shot them, tortured them, etc. etc. And if you think for one minute that these dogs were his ONLY victims, you better think again. Do you realize that when they are training dogs to fight, they throw little innocent kittens into the pit with a dog, so that he tears the little kitties (and other defenseless animals) up, gets the taste and desire for blood to make them want to tear up the other dog they will eventually fight to the death with. It’s a DISGUSTING, FILTHY and IMMORAL thing to do on all levels.
And before some Michael Vick fan starts whining about he “only” did this to animals so it’s not a big deal, well, YES, it IS a big deal. As others have stated, serial killers started out abusing and torturing animals. So, are we to wait until Michael Vick’s anger gets out of control and his true sociopath elements take people out as well? What if it’s YOUR loved one he decided to rape, torture and kill? It will be too late then.
Anyone who can be that violent and that cruel definitely has mental problems. I don’t believe that these mental issues have been addressed and therefore may well come up again in the future.
I’ve seen some people who only care about football, oh, they’ll say that yes, it was wrong of Vick to torture and kill those dogs, but since he is such a “great” football player that’s all that seems to matter to them. Personally, I could not care less about football and whether you are a great athlete or not, it does not give you the right to be cruel, abusive and sadistic to innocent creatures.
January 15, 2011 at 11:05 am
Michael Vick’s actions demonstrate a lack of connection to other living creatures. These horrendous and torturous actions can easily be done to a human being by a person with the traits of Mr. Vick. He is a very dangerous person and I hope that he is under intensive psychological counseling to see if he has the capability of reconnecting with the human race in any civilized way. In the way I see it, the rest of Michael Vick’s natural life will be to short to atone and make amends for what he has done. How can you undo something like this? The only thing that he can do is to live the rest of his life in total contrition. He should demonstrate this by becoming the poster boy of anti-animal cruelty in the world and devote he fame, efforts and resources to bring awareness on this issue while professing his monstrous and torturous “mistake” .
January 15, 2011 at 1:17 am
I’m am so disgusted at what I’ve read, who the hell does he think he is? My heart is so sore, I love animals, i live for mine, they are my life, they are my children.
If they do allow him to get another dog then there is seriously something wrong, they would be failing us, by giving him a second chance, its like wat he has done is not serious, he hasn’t killed one dog, he has kiLled plenty,its not displaying a good example for the other animal abusers out there!
I wish for him to be walking alone somwhere where its abandoned and he meets up with a bunch of dogs and they pounce on him and rip him to pieces and leave to die in agony and pain, like he has caused to all those dogs.
He is a evil sick man
January 14, 2011 at 4:37 pm
Words cannot express how totally disgusting I find Michael Vick. As the owner of a pit, along with several family members who are pit owners, just to hear his name mentioned while trying to enjoy a football game sickens me. I appreciate your posting of this blog, which I have been sharing, to enlighten people how heinous his crimes were and that he has not come close to paying his debt to society. Please keep posting and educating people on the real Michael Vick.
January 14, 2011 at 4:41 pm
Tina,
Thank you so much for your support and your voice. And I will continue to post and bring to like the true crimes perpetrated by Bad NewZ and Vick.
Chris
January 14, 2011 at 2:40 pm
We own a beautiful Pitbull 2 y.o. “Chanel”. I love her so much that every time I think that she can get get lost and someone would hurt her, I get fever. I can’t start my day without looking in her golden eyes, and can’t go to sleep without doing the same. If it was up to me, he would’ve gotten the same punishment as he had given to his dogs…exact same way!…just to experience the unbearable pain…only THEN he will really realize what he did…not after few months of a comfortable cell! Blood for blood.
January 14, 2011 at 7:15 am
I, know that I may run the risk of being the lone dissenter here. But with that said…I, too admit to, Mr. Vick being extremely cruel to those amimals. But wouldn’t you agree that this is learned behaviour????
So if you can, explain to me why . With all of this hatred that;s directed toward Mr. Vick. Where is this righteous indignation for those who actually continue unchecked in this past time??? And have done so, for decades!!!WHO ARE THEY??? YOU ASK!! THIS COUNTRY’S GOOD OLE BOYS,….black and white…
P.S. In the fifty states…how many men have been sent to prison for dog fighting, since Mr. Vick ??? What about before Mr. Vick ???
P.P. Include ALL … or NONE at ALL !!!!!!!!!!!!
January 14, 2011 at 11:35 am
First off, I did not set out to return to the spotlight to Michael Vick. The President of the United States did that and HSUS CEO Wayne Pacelle has been doing that. And as for “learned behavior”, I had someone mention that to me yesterday. Michael Vick grew up in the United States by the way. If he did not know what he was doing was wrong, if he did not see the absolute brutality of his and the others actions towards those dogs, then his moral compass is just plain broken and anyone associated with him, Pacelle, family, Eagles, his PR team, should be urging him into therapy and significant counselling. Because to your point, if this is “learned” behavior, how has or how will he unlearn it? And if he hasn’t why does everyone (POTUS included) say “great job, way to turn it around, etc”.
I continue to hear and read comments from people stating that Vick served his time, he’s changed, give him another chance, etc.
1. Michael Vick has NEVER, I repeat NEVER spent a day in jail/prison for dog fighting or animal cruelty. That debt in my book is UNPAID! And the President, surrounded by more information than is available to anyone else in the entire world, should know that. It was a stupid, inappropriate and totally uninformed comment.
2. In response to “He’s changed”. Really? Because I have never once heard of him truly acknowledge what he did. Sure, dog fighting is wrong, blah, blah, blah. But let’s see him really come out and tell of the horrors he and Bad NewZ Kennels inflicted on those poor dogs. I want to hear him admit to the hangings, the electrocutions, the beatings, the absolute torture. When he does that I will begin to consider that perhaps he is acknowledging his crimes and he is turning a corner. I want these fans and supporters to hear HIM say in all the gory detail exactly what they did. Then let him seek forgiveness. Most people think this is just about dog fighting. But truly it is about so much more. As I said in the article, dog fighting is bad enough, but the abuse these dogs suffered for these men’s enjoyment is sickening. But until this HERO uses his fame and his status to begin to right the wrongs of his past, I stand firm on everything that I have said.
3. As for his second chance – he’s living it. Now, let’s see what he does with it. He has been given a phenomenal chance to really make a difference? Will he? It’s been almost two years and I really haven’t seen anything from him that tells me he’s sincere and truly embracing his advocacy against his past actions in an effort to really impact the world of not only dog fighting, but animal cruelty.
Respectfully,
Chris
January 14, 2011 at 11:54 am
he’s not changed…. he will never change unless he repents wichj he has not done…. and will never do…. coz he’s still involved in this kinda stufff…. if he was sorry for waht he did…. he has not shown it and doesnt live the life of a changed person…
January 17, 2011 at 2:19 pm
Chris, thank you. Your words “If he did not know what he was doing was wrong, if he did not see the absolute brutality of his and the others actions towards those dogs, then his moral compass is just plain broken and…” say it all. This is the crux of the issue; many people overlook it and no on has put it in those simple terms. A person cannot “learn” to abuse and kill animals without remorse, and continue to do so, then get caught and “unlearn” it and be remorseful. As for Obama? I voted for him. Now I can’t wait til he’s the hell out of there.
January 14, 2011 at 12:30 am
I agree with all of your statements but one–and it’s a biggie.
“And if you can still overlook the glaring brutality committed by and on behalf of this man, then you seriously need to get your football shaped head out of your ass and consider the situation without Vick.”
For ages Black people have been called “football heads” it’s a racist term, and should be removed from this blog.
I can’t share or “like” this on facebook with that reference in it.
January 14, 2011 at 1:59 am
Jim,
Thank you for your reply. I have never heard that term used in that sense, and apologize for any misinterpretation. It was directed at ANYone – red, blue, green, white, black, or orange that fails to look at the truth of the situation because they are so scope locked on football.
I also attempted searching the etymology of such a slur and found nothing – at all. In fact the only reference to a football shaped head individual I could find anywhere was the cartoon character Arnold from “Hey Arnold”. And he’s white. Other than that, any other reference seemed to follow the same logic I used – self professed football fans/fanatics – (similar to a “Gearhead” – car mechanic/enthusiast, or a “Chiphead” – computer nerd)
Chris
January 14, 2011 at 2:01 am
I’ve never heard of this term, and Google wasn’t any help. Can you please post a reference?
January 13, 2011 at 9:03 pm
Well written article. And I could not agree more. This behavior is a precursor to more violent, aggressive, sociopathic behavior. Lets hope we don’t live to regret letting him off so easily.
January 13, 2011 at 7:08 pm
They’re are just the facts, don’t worry about them.
January 13, 2011 at 7:06 pm
I dont believe Michael Vick is sorry or regrets the dogfighting. He is only sorry he got caught. What he did is beyond and he does not deserve a second chance. He is a coward and a asshole. I have a pit bull at home and would do anything to make sure she is happy, well taken care and safe.
January 13, 2011 at 4:05 pm
Michael Vick has NOT paid his debt to society….. he is an ass hole swine…. F*&^ him and his supporters….. he’s no human…. he’s scum…. and deserved to be maimed by dogs for what he has done and served 18 months…. screw him and his sports. he’s a nothing.
January 13, 2011 at 10:11 am
Thank you Mr. Durant for publishing this article. The supporting factual references allow for even the most skeptical to realize that, in fact, this is a brutally true story. One may come up with excuses for Vick, but in my opinion it is only to mask something many people do not want to face. Or perhaps it is to have justification for supporting and loving a ‘football star’ who is in fact, a monster & classic sociopath. Money and certain talents make certain people almost excempt from any crimes and atrocities that they commit. If it were fair and equal accross the board, Vick would still be in prison today. As part of his ‘rehabilitaion’ perhaps he should VOLUNTARILY and WITHOUT PUBLICITY choose to do more for the breed he so inhumanely used and tortured to further his own and that of his family’s financial gain. A refuge and care facility for pit bulls to be taken care of, fostered and perhaps adopted so that they may lead a normal and happy life? I suppose he would not want to sacrifice any of those millions….
I once heard someone say that in the poor areas, dog fighting brought money to people to put food on their tables. Something similar was echoed in one of the posts here on the board. Another person said dog fighting was once legal…well folks, now it is not. And Vick was not poor and did not need the money, nor did his family. So that in itself should be enough to cry FOUL and to prove there are no excuses. I would also like to add that there are some things good people don’t do, whether there is a law to prohibit it or not. To put it simply, there is nothing in the rules of Monopoly that says “Don’t cheat”. However people know that cheating is wrong. I know that compared to what he did this example is overly simplified and does not by any means come close to any type of comparison. It is only a small way of trying to make a point. It was wrong and cruel and inhumane to not only torture these dogs, but also to derive enjoyment and a false sense of power from it. It shows a type of heartlessness that most people can not even begin to understand. And thank God they do not…..
January 13, 2011 at 9:22 am
People are products of their environment. My guess is that you grew up in a middle class white suburban neighborhood & you were taught to appreciate & love animals. Michael Vick grew up in Newport News Virginia where dog fighting & drug dealing were part of everyday life.
It’s close to the same fundamental difference between a Hindu finding the slaughtering & consumption of cows unlawful & a Christian enjoying grilled steak every Friday. In Southeast Asia dogs are breed for consumption.
The obvious is that he broke the law & you could debate the sentence was too lenient. But it does appear to me & Barrack Obama that he now fully understands that cruelty to domestic animals is a crime in the United States & I believe he will never be a repeat defender but a staunch advocate for animal rights. You must find forgiveness in your heart – there is a good chance that a dark demon haunts your past & that may be the reason that you can not let go.
January 13, 2011 at 11:09 am
Perhaps Mike should move to Southeast Asia where he would not have to suffer the likes of me but perhaps would be elevated to an even loftier status than that of “Football Star”.
January 14, 2011 at 8:12 pm
What?!?! That has got to be the most asinine bunch of apologetics ever spouted. Un-fkg-believable.
January 15, 2011 at 9:20 pm
AJ, first of all let me say that this is NOT Southeast Asia and dogs there are treated deplorably as well. To try to pass this brutality off as Vick being a product of his environment is bullshit in the extreme. I cannot believe that dog fighting and drug dealing is common place in Newport News, Virginia. Vick is a sick individual and only cares about his own material gain. He has no remorse for what he did, he just has a good PR man to try to make him look better than what he is. As for forgiveness, forgiveness does not mean you forget and you are not punished for whatever deed you committed. Before there can be forgiveness, there must be repentance, Vick has not repented so forgiveness is a non-issue.
January 16, 2011 at 3:02 pm
It is my understanding that when you turn 18 you are a “legal” adult in the US. At what point in time are people supposed to be “adults” and no longer blame their faults on their upbringing. That is just an idiotic statement to say that he is a product of his environment! We are all products of our environment…but WE have to make a decision to CHANGE and that’s part of being a responsible adult! If he was just a product of his environment – as you say – then you are saying that because he grew up around it that he sees it as being ok to fight dogs – so why did he go to such great lengths to hide it? Why? Because he KNEW it was wrong!
You go on to say that to you that Vick fully understands that cruelty to domestic animals is a crime in the United States – ummm…..I think he knew that BEFORE he began fighting dogs.
Something the aauthor of this blog failed to mention is that Vick’s family DID have a pet that they kept in the house…a pet that Vick threw into a fight ring and allowed hsi fighting pits to tear apart while Vick and his cronies laughed about it!
You talk about letting go….forgiving Vick is NOT my place – that’s between him & God….this isn’t about “letting go” – this is about a sadisitic person abusing the hell out of dogs for the fun of it and as for letting it go – I will when I see true remorse! I will let go when Vick truly pays for what he did and doesn’t seek to further improve his image at the risk of ANY animal.
Did you also know that according to statistics since Vick has signed on with the Eagles – dog fighting in Philly has TRIPLED! Yep – that’s some role model!
January 23, 2011 at 7:12 pm
Um, I live in Newport News, Virginia and it is a pretty nice area where I am at. No more drugs than anywhere else I lived. In fact, Newport News is just a small portion of the “Hampton Roads” area which is pretty much geared towards military families (because of all the bases in the area) and tourists (because it is between Virginia Beach and the historical cities like Williamsburg).
And what does an animal being raised for consumption have to do with anything? We breed chickens for food, but cock fights are still illegal.
January 13, 2011 at 9:12 am
Absolutely sickening!!!! assholes all deserve the death penalty…considering they killed innocent animals…kinda like killing an innocent child. The SOB doesnt deserve another chance…lets stand him in water and fry his ass!!!
January 13, 2011 at 6:05 am
A link to this article came up on the website People For The Ethical Treatment Of Pit Bulls as a comment to a photograph which I happen to be webmaster over, and I approved it immediately. But I took it one step further and posted it to my facebook page. It is great and should be spread and published all around. I am surprised Vick is still alive. There is alot of street justice in this world and while I personally don’t engage in violence I am shocked that no one has taken him down.
January 13, 2011 at 12:31 pm
Thank you for helping to spread the word!
January 13, 2011 at 3:03 pm
I have included a link to your page at the bottom of the article. Thanks again. Chris
January 28, 2011 at 3:46 pm
I just saw that today and put it on my FB wall,only 2 people replied to it,shocking….
http://blogs.bestfriends.org/index.php/2011/01/25/petas-better-off-dead-philosophy/#
This is wot Peta really thinks about Pit Bulls…
“PETA believes that all pit bulls should be killed upon entering shelters, rather than be adopted by the public.”
January 13, 2011 at 1:14 am
Thank you for posting and again bringing attention to this unforgivable deed that this monster has done. As horrible as it is to hear some of atrocities this being participated in, It must not be forgotten or swept under the rug!
January 13, 2011 at 1:06 am
Excellent points! Thank you mr. Durant for taking the time to research and write such a well written article. I think I even understand why you named it as you did but also still think that the name of the article could have been better chosen. I want to post this as many places as possible!
January 13, 2011 at 2:21 am
Thank you, Laura. I have and had battled over the name of the article. But this one, at its heart, tells the true story. We just have to look beyond our preconceived notions.
Please repost and share as much as you like.
Chris
January 13, 2011 at 12:41 am
I think this is one of the most factual, to the point and well written articles about Vick’s sick and sadistic excuse for a human being. Beautiful….
January 12, 2011 at 8:49 pm
Vick should be put in a circle and be forced to fight to the death.
January 12, 2011 at 7:43 pm
I have thought about this so much, that it hurts my head to even think about it. Jordan…Jordan…Jordan…Jordan…you ill informed man. Im going to give you the difference between killing, torturing, electrocuting, hanging, mutilating, and fighting pit bull and hunting in 2 words. are you ready? are you sure? ok, here gos…HUNTING’S LEAGAL!!! can you feel that? people hunt to feed their family. hunting is not a sadistic beginning to a sociopathic behavior!!! also…MICHAEL VICK IS NO MODEL CITIZEN. he certainly does not give kids something to look up to. what he did tells kids, that its ok to kill, torture and slaughter poor defenseless dogs, as long as you have money and excell at sports, you will only get a slap on the wrist. another thought, if youre religeous(michael vick thinks he is as he crossed himself before the game sunday) is if you believe god forgives, he forgives after you have repented and admitted your sins. well…that piece of shit vick has yet to admit to animal cruelty. how that for a role model. Jordan, its people like you that stick up for this guy, when he doesnt deserve a second chance. im sorry, but i dont repect your opinion, and i ask that you respect me for not respecting yours. sorry, but michael vick doesnt deserve to play in the NFL…EVER AGAIN!!!
January 13, 2011 at 1:29 am
I’ve known lots of hunters, and they enjoy the stalking and killing. That’s sick. They’re not subsistence hunters; they live in the suburbs. Some admit that it actually costs them more to hunt than to go to the grocery store. But they enjoy the violence. They say they also being outdoors. But you don’t need to intentionally kill innocent beings – some of whom die slowm lingering deaths because not everyone’s a marksman with a clean shot – in order to enjoy the outdoors.
The fact that hunting is legal has no bearing on whether it’s ethical – when done for pleasure, not for survival. Not too long ago, dogfighting was legal.
January 13, 2011 at 2:26 am
Gary,
I don’t hunt and I do not condone hunting except for the utilization of meat. And I will admit to everyone here – I am almost strictly a meat eater. However, if you do not see a difference between hunting and this, I am sorry. Sure the result is the same – the death of an otherwise innocent animal. BUT – the means and the intent are galaxies away from one another. That is the realization that you need to embrace.
I know men who hunt, and I have never met one that sought to torture the deer, etc. after the capture/kill shot.
Chris
January 12, 2011 at 3:18 pm
It’s simple really would you let a pedophile adopt a child, or a convicted drug dealer open a pharmacy?! It’s insanity that this man should be allowed to own ANY animals period.
January 12, 2011 at 12:54 am
So lets kill some kids and call them a model citizen….really? michael Vick is a sick individual thriving off of pain and death of living pets. These dogs were not chosen to be born nor asked for the pain and suffering from some selfish idiot. Animals feel pain and bleed just like we do. So since I was put in a foster home as a child and before that my mother was an alcholic always slapping me around…..then that should be an excuse for me to do harm to others….NOT!!!! I chose to save lives (four legged)and help others accomplish what they want in life.
January 11, 2011 at 10:43 pm
Michael Vick is only human. I do respect your opinion but I have a different opinion. I believe in second chances. I do know that what Michael Vick did was wrong, you know it, everybody knows it. Michael Vick has become a model citizen, if you like it or not it is true. He has had a horrible past. Michael Vick wants to turn to another stage in his life. But, it is people like you that will not allow him to do this. He wants people to forgive and forget. I understand that he has killed many dogs, but whats the difference with him killing dogs and hunters killing deer, rabbits, moose, bear, wolves etc. You do not see hunters getting this much grief from killing those animals do you. Many people own rabbits and rabbits get killed everyday. Many people own fish. Many fish are killed each and everyday. I have a comment on this sentence.”Vick is reported as having experienced an adrenaline rush and euphoric like high from his participation in this savagery.” Have you ever done something illegal, or maybe not illegal maybe you were a little kid and you were told not to do something and you did it anyway? You get that little burst of adrenaline. You get this because you know that you are doing something wrong and you could get caught at any moment. Maybe some cases more severe than others but that is not the point. Mike Vick knew that what he was doing was wrong that is why he got such a rush from it. I think that when Vick got out of jail it gave convicts hope. It let them know that when they get out of jail, they can lead a semi-normal life. Mike Vick getting out of jail was also a positive things for children. It let them know that people make mistakes. People who have done something wrong deserve a second chance. But, if they ruin that second chance then that’s it. They need to make the best of that second chance. Many children looked up to Mike Vick just as a football player. This made those children realize that football or sports in general isn’t everything. Some children thought that if you were some star then there would be no consequences, this showed them that there were consequences. Severe ones at that. Ray Lewis killed someone, some people may not think so but one of his friends took the fall so he could continue to be successful. Nobody is talking about that today. So in a few years i believe that you will begin to let Michael Vick continue on with his normal life. People will begin to forgive and forget Michael Vick’s actions. ALL people make mistakes at one point in their life. This was Michael Vick’s mistake. I respect your opinion so I hope that you will equally respect mine. Thank you.
January 11, 2011 at 11:21 pm
Of course I respect your opinion, Jordan. But I also strongly disagree with it. Doing something “wrong” (loosely defined) and getting off on the torturous suffering of another living creature (especially one that our culture has ‘adopted’ as a companion animal) is very different, AND the latter implies a sickness and an extreme social disorder.
I hope that I am wrong and Michael Vick proves me so. But for the moment, I am not sold.
Regardless of what turn around he may ever make, I do not support him ever having the companionship of another dog. He forfeited that privilege, of his own will through his actions.
Chris
January 11, 2011 at 11:21 pm
Comparing hunting with what vick did is to me like comparing apples to oranges. Yes, they are both fruits, but they aren’t the same! Vick electrocuted, hung, and drowned dogs. He enjoyed their agony and pain. He enjoyed inflicting that pain. That is a “little” different than those that hunt for food.
If he couldn’t throw a football would he be given the same second chance? How many parolees aren’t given jobs or a way to support themselves and their families?
What vick did is “SICK”! Serial killers all have one thing in common that has been proven. They started out torturing animals.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion until that opinion is in favor of cruelty to another being. That is my opinion and one I will fight for until the day I die.
January 11, 2011 at 11:30 pm
You can’t compare being naughty as a child to the sadistic torture of those dogs. There is something wrong with your DNA, (not fixable) if you can take part in such torture, and admit you like it.
Vick said about the interception he threw in last Sunday’s game against the Packers “it was the biggest mistake of my life”. Speaks volumes about his true character.
January 12, 2011 at 10:37 am
I understand what you mean by “second chance”… the thing here however, was that Vick never thought about giving those dogs a second chance. He had pleasure in doing this inhumane things. Animals feel as much as we do… so how is it that crimes committed against them are not as “cruel” as to humans? I ask you, what if instead of those dogs, the ones being tortured, electrocuted, slammed to the floor, drowned, hanged would be someone special from your family, your wife, parents, siblings, daughter, son? I don’t think you would agree on a second chance in that case. If it is about second chances, then why don’t we give all criminals second chances? How about serial killers? rapists? If Vick “deserves” a second chance, then these other criminals should get one as well because the crimes committed by them are as horrendous and disgusting (I even dare to think Vick’s crimes were even more disgusting and horrifying than some of them). So tell me, wouldn’t everyone deserve a second chance then?
January 12, 2011 at 12:47 pm
Jordan,
usually when you make a mistake you don’t do it again. I believe he killed 11 dogs. So that would be 11 mistakes. He did not learn from his first mistake. What about the wails and cries from slamming these dogs to the ground again and again. Who could listen to that and do It again. I have a pitt bull and look at her and wonder how could anyone do this.I dont believe he deserves another chance.
January 19, 2011 at 1:59 am
Jordan – Have you read “The Lost Dogs” by Jim Gorant? If not then I HIGHLY reccomend that you read it before you come to this conclusion. I could go through the list with you – but this book will make a bigger impact because you will see this story from the dog’s point of view – instead of just like Vick is your average Joe Shmoe who did nothing more than stole a newspaper. After you read the book then let’s talk….
January 20, 2011 at 2:37 pm
I do believe in second chances. But what Michael Vick did was wrong. If he knew what he was doing was wrong, then why did he not stop doing it?
And I will NEVER forget or forgive Michael Vick. He`s a loser and should not be playing football, making millions.
When he got convicted, he was allowed to make a speech, that speech went a little like this: “I`m sorry to my mom, my girlfriend (or was it fiancee??) and I`m sorry to all the young people that look up to me“…not ONCE did he apologize to what he did to those dogs, he never gave a thank you to the rescues/individuals who took the time to help them. Sure he gave them money, do you honestly think he would do that if the judge had not ordered him to? I don`t think so. I recommend you read “Lost Dogs“ by Jim Gorant, it gives you a whole new perspective.
Sorry if I copied anyone on anything I said in this comment, I have not read the previous comments before it.