http://www.wsbtv.com/news/16622250/d...306162008&ts=H
Dogfighting Case
Court Expenses, Schedule Problems Cloud Former NFL Star's Future
Scott MacFarlane
WASHINGTON -- The prosecutor in tiny Surry County, Va., said Michael Vick might have to wait another year until he gets his day in court. Vick, who was previously scheduled to go on trial on state dogfighting charges next week, isn't likely to face a jury until summer 2009.
VIDEO: Scott MacFarlane Reports - Likely Delays in Vick Case
Surry County's Gerald Poindexter, has indicated it's too expensive for Surry to prosecute Vick until the quarterback completes his federal prison sentence. Poindexter told the Associated Press it's not worth the expense for Surry County to get the men from prisons in different states for trial and escort them back later. Poindexter indicates he'll wait until Vick completes his sentence before holding the trial.
Multiple sources who are familiar with the operation of the tiny courthouse in Sussex, Va.
told wsbtv. com they're unsure if the court and its personnel could handle the spectacle and crowds a Vick court appearance would attract.
In addition to his 23-month federal prison sentence, Vick faces Virginia state criminal charges of dogfighting and cruelty to animals, for which he could serve separate state prison time.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons projects Vick will be released from the Leavenworth federal prison July 20, 2009.
Vick's attorney, Billy Martin, entered a not-guilty plea on Vick's behalf to the state charges earlier this year.
University of Richmond law professor Carl Tobias, told wsbtv. com Vick is unlikely to take the case to trial. "All four (Vick and his three co-defendants) may ultimately plead," Tobias said.