From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution:
Faced with the likelihood that a new federal indictment will charge Falcons quarterback Michael Vick with more serious dogfighting offenses, his attorneys Tuesday were seeking a plea deal that limits his prison time and saves his NFL career, according to people with knowledge of the negotiations.
Early next week a federal grand jury in Richmond, Va., will begin hearing new allegations against Vick. This means Vick has until the end of the week to reach a deal or face more serious charges.
Vick’s legal team not only must negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, but with the NFL as well. If Vick cannot secure a deal that saves his NFL career, he could decide to go to trial, risking a lengthy prison sentence if he is convicted.
…The plea negotiations follow news that two more of Vick’s three co-defendants are scheduled to enter guilty pleas later this week as part of a deal with prosecutors.
Vick’s motivation to enter a guilty plea is fueled by the announcement of the U.S. Attorney’s Office last month that it will seek a second “superseding” indictment against Vick that would bring the more serious charges. The federal grand jury in Richmond is scheduled to meet again on Monday, effectively giving Vick a deadline to make up his mind.
Looks like Vick will be doing some time in the big house for sure. His future in football far less certain.
