Statement from Humane Society of the United States on the Michael Vick plea

DAILY PRESS

3:46 PM EDT, August 24, 2007

The Humane Society of the United States released the following statement in reaction to Michael Vick's plea agreement in federal court today admitting to dogfighting charges, including gambling and the killing of fighting dogs:

"We're pleased this case is progressing, and that the original concerns about an illegal, interstate dogfighting network have been entirely validated," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. "We hope the judge provides a sentence commensurate with the gravity of these crimes. But this is not the end point in this fight -- we must turn our attention to cracking down on this very ugly form of organized crime in America.

"The Humane Society of the United States has decades of experience in prosecuting animal cruelty cases and would like to offer our assistance to law enforcement agencies. The Humane Society of the United States has recently announced a newly invigorated animal fighting reward program. The Humane Society of the United States now offers up to $5,000 for citizens who provide the police with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of people involved in animal fighting. "