So, they raid a property owned by Atlanta Falcon's quarterback Michael Vick home in Smithfield, Va. and find evidence of dog-fighting. Of course, Vick denies it all and blames family and friends. Now, though, he seems to have clammed up (that's probably a first for him!).
Why? Because it would appear that out there, somewhere are videotapes that show him watching the dog fights he supposedly knew nothing about. According to Kathy Strouse, the Animal Control Coordinator for the city of Chesapeake, Va., a tip has been received from a "reliable source" that tapes exist that would not only connect Vick to the scandal, but also open him up to possible federal charges.
"We don't know where (the tapes) are or if they do indeed exist, but I have been told that they are out there," said Strouse, who is also affiliated with two other organizations involved in the welfare of animals. "Without knowing where they are, there's no possibility of getting a search warrant at this point." She has also spoken with others who can place him on the property at the time of fights, but they are at this point reluctant to testify.
In any case, Strouse is very confident they will get what they need to tie Vick in to this whole sordid mess. She has issued a challenge to Surry County Commonwealth attorney Gerald Poindexter to charge Vick, who has been hesitant to charge anyone with dog fighting, even though he was there at the time of the raid and saw what was seized.
Dog fighting is a felony in 48 states and is a misdemeanor in Idaho and Wyoming. In Virginia, a conviction can carry up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
And what does Vick have to say about all of this? "It is still under investigation, and once it is over, we will talk about it. As of right now, I cannot talk about the situation," Vick said. He then told reporters: "Don't plan on talking about me anymore unless it's about football."
Interesting comments for a man who at the time it happened denied any knowledge or involvement, even though neighbors had not only seen him in the area regularly, but also buying syringes and other materials used in training dogs for fighting. And in an interview with Chris Landry of FOX Sports, Ray Buchanan, a former Atlanta defensive back, indicated that Vick has been involved in dog fighting for years.
What an ugly mess. How sick do you have to be to get enjoyment out of watching animals literally tear each other apart? And please, don't liken this to boxing or football or any other sport where people CHOOSE to go at one another. This is just plain wrong, folks!