Michael Vick.
Three years ago, the talent attached to the name sent chills of electricity down the spines of football fans everywhere.
Today, that name sends chills of revulsion down the spines of animal rights activists everywhere.
The horrors that made up Bad Newz Kennels will never be forgotten along with the stain it left on Vick’s legacy. But where’s “60 Minutes” for Donte’ Stallworth?
Stallworth was charged with DUI manslaughter in April after killing a pedestrian in an incident in Miami in March and was sentenced to 30 days in jail, 1,000 hours of community service, two years of house arrest, and eight years of probation. In addition, Stallworth was suspended by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell without pay for the entire 2009 season.
But still, Stallworth only spent 24 days in jail and is allowed to work out five days a week during his house arrest. Vick spent 23 months under arrest, including 21 months at the United States Penitentiary in Leavenworth, KS.
Is this justice?
Vick has been hounded by PETA members since his return to the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles. Criticism of Vick will never cease, no matter how many times he speaks out against animal cruelty. Vick will never be able to satisfy the organization’s insatiable desire for retribution.
The most attention Stallworth has gotten is an appearance on ESPN’s “E:60.” Stallworth’s every move isn’t being monitored by ESPN. NFL Network reporters aren’t staking out his house. We don’t hear legends speaking out about Stallworth’s crime.
Vick has paid back enough. He lost two years of his life in prison. He lost his contract, which was the priciest in NFL history when he signed it in 2005, at $130 million over 10 years. He lost his place in society as he became ostracized as the disgusting details surrounding the happenings at his Virginia home became public knowledge.
This is enough. Taking away a man’s livelihood is punishment enough in today’s society. Vick has indeed lost the respect of millions all over the world and kick-started animal cruelty awareness everywhere.
Yes, Stallworth will eventually pay his debt to society, but with significantly less media scrutiny. But when it comes down to it, aren’t the chances of a repeat of his incident much greater than that of Vick’s?
Taking the life of dogs sends a man to Leavenworth. Taking the life of a fellow man sends a man to his home.
Daniel Gallen can be reached for comment at [email protected].