Atlanta Falcons Star QB Michael Vick Accused of Operating Dog Fighting Ring

Is Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick involved in an illegal dog fighting ring as well as drugs? Signs indicate that it may be possible.

On Wednesday, investigators filed a search warrant for a property owned by Michael Vick. The NFL star does not live on the property, which is occupied by Vick's nephew, Davon Boddie. Police were initially working on a suspected drug case. Last week, police in Hampton, VA, arrested and charged Boddie with possession of drugs with intent to sell. He had been found in possession of bags of marijuana and a gun under the passenger's seat of his car.

Vick was not home when the warrant was served, and it is not yet known what, if any, involvement he might have, other than as owner of the property. Police arrived searching for more proof of a drug ring, but were surprised to find a potential drug fighting setup.

According to reports, police found more than 70 dogs on the property, many of them scarred, injured, malnourished, and appeared abused, either by neglect or other means. "Some had significant scarring," said Kathy Strouse from Chesapeake Animal Control. "Some had wounds. Some had eye problems."

In addition, police discovered what is known as a "rape stand," where a female dog may be tethered in order to give male dogs access to her in order to facilitate breeding. According to animal control officers, Wednesday's bust was one of the largest dog fighting instances they've seen.

Vick would not be the first professional athlete accused of trafficking in dog fighting. In January of 2005, pro basketball player Qyntel Woods pleaded guilty to animal abuse and was sentenced to probation and community service. Former NFL player LeShon Johnson has also been in trouble, more than once in his case, for ties to dog fighting.

Dog fighting is illegal in all states, and a felony in 48, including Virginia and Georgia. According to Wayne Pacelle of the Humane Society, his organization has heard "roubling reports for some time that Michael Vick has been involved in organized dog fighting, and we fear that this investigation may validate that very disturbing allegation."