Opinion

Vick's a criminal; treat him as such

Posted September 29, 2007 11:00 pm

I love football and I look forward to the arrival of the season. However, this year 1 am not sure how much football I will be watching.

During a recent Monday Night football game on an extremely popular sports station, I listened in anger at the constant publicity given to Michael Vick. On and on, I heard of his "tragedy" and how very sorry he is. I heard him describe himself interestingly enough as "immature." In my frustration, I had to turn it off.

I am confused as to why these on-air personalities chose to support this individual and his horrific actions. Further, I was amazed at how the team and even the cheerleading squad seemed to overlook his actions. The fact is that this individual is a felon. He broke the law with his participation in the sadistic sport of dog fighting.

I wasn't sure 1 was going to write this letter -- I have been trying to break my "crusader" bone. However, I am appalled. I also like to think of myself as a compassionate and humane person and if this individual truly recognizes the heinous actions that took place under his roof then I imagine he is also willing to be held accountable for the same. Being held accountable should include serving prison time. I believe the last straw for me was when I heard one broadcaster state that he felt that this criminal should serve no time in prison!

I hope that in the future our broadcasters realize their responsibility and their role on the airwaves. I also hope they learn the difference between recognizing human frailty and applauding it. I believe it is time that we stop making heroes out of criminals and hold all people to the same set of standards.

People are joining together and sending the message that dog fighting or any form of animal abuse will no longer be tolerated in our country. I hope that society learns the humane values of compassion, empathy and respect for all living things and works together to end this vicious cycle of violence!

Linda L. Linford

Executive Director

Naperville Area

Humane Society

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