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DEFENDANT: QB VICK BANKROLLED DOGFIGHTS

 
Published July 31, 2007

One of Michael Vick's co-defendants pleaded guilty Monday to his role in a dogfighting conspiracy he says was financed almost entirely by the Falcons quarterback.

As part of a plea agreement, Tony Taylor pledged to fully cooperate with the government in its prosecution of Vick and two other men accused of running an interstate dogfighting enterprise known as "Bad Newz Kennels" on Vick's property in rural Surry County.

"The 'Bad Newz Kennels' operation and gambling monies were almost exclusively funded by Vick," a summary of facts supporting the plea agreement and signed by Taylor states.

The plea deal requires Taylor, 34, of Hampton, Va., to testify against Vick and two remaining co-defendants if called upon. Taylor cannot get a stiffer sentence or face new charges based on any new information he provides.

Additional charges are possible against Vick and the other two.

Vick's lead attorney, Billy Martin, did not immediately return a phone message.

Also, Vick said in a radio interview on Atlanta's WVEE-FM that he was remorseful for the negativity his situation has brought to Atlanta and team owner Arthur Blank and that he is hopeful, but not certain, that he'll play for the Falcons again.

Vick, calling from Virginia, also expressed gratitude to fans who have stuck by him. The interview was Vick's first since charges were filed July 17.

COLTS: Former Pro Bowl safety Bob Sanders, coming off of offseason surgery, was placed on the physically unable to perform list.

PATRIOTS: Defensive back Chad Scott will miss the season with a knee injury.

RAMS: Cornerback Fakhir Brown said he was suspended for violating the league's substance abuse policy because he accidentally missed a drug test and is appealing the penalty. Brown, who started 14 games last season, was suspended this month for the first four games of the season. He said a meeting with commissioner Roger Goodell has not been scheduled.

REDSKINS: No. 6 overall pick LaRon Landry agreed to terms, ending his brief holdout from training camp. The safety from LSU was expected to practice today after signing a five-year deal worth about $41.5-million.

STEELERS: Linebacker Marquis Cooper, a former Buc, was claimed off waivers from the Seahawks.