Strong and appropriate sentence received on Monday, December 10, by NFL quarterback Michael Vick. Vick, who pleaded guilty in August to federal charges in connection with a dogfighting operation on his property in Virginia, appeared before Judge Henry Hudson in Richmond, VA, and was sentenced to 23 months in federal prison, effective immediately. This is at the higher end of the federal sentencing guidelines of 18 to 24 months and is to be followed by a three-year probation period, during which time Vick is forbidden to own or have any contact with dogs other than supporting humane organizations.”“This is a significant moment in the history of animal cruelty prosecution,” says Ed Sayres, ASPCA President & CEO. “It sends a clear message to criminals everywhere—this kind of barbaric cruelty to animals will not be tolerated.”