RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Michael Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison Monday for his role in a dogfighting conspiracy that involved gambling and killing pit bulls.

The suspended Atlanta Falcons quarterback could have been sentenced up to five years by District Judge Henry E. Hudson. Vick was dressed in a black-and-white striped prison suit and apologized to the court and his family.

Vick pleaded guilty in August, admitting he bankrolled the "Bad Newz Kennels" dogfighting operation and helped kill six to eight dogs.

In a plea agreement, he admitted bankrolling the dogfighting ring on his 15-acre property in rural southeastern Virginia and helping kill pit bulls that did not perform well in test fights. He also admitted providing money for bets on the fights but said he never shared in any winnings.

Hudson already sentenced two of Vick's co-defendants to 18 months and 21 months — slightly more than prosecutors recommended, but still within the guidelines.

Legal experts said Hudson's willingness to stick to the guidelines in those cases was a positive sign for Vick, but by no means a guarantee he will get similar treatment because so many factors could work against him.

Defendants typically get credit for acceptance of responsibility and contrition. Vick apologized at a news conference after entering his guilty plea, and he will have an opportunity to speak directly to the court before he is sentenced

Vick's lead attorney, Billy Martin, did not respond to an e-mail inquiry about possible character witnesses and whether Vick would directly address the court.

i barely know anything about the justice system but will he be able to get parol (sp?) after 12 months or anything?

So little time for so much damage done. I guess this is why I will never be a judge.
Tara

He still has to face state charges in VA and I believe he is getting 1yr for all the 5 dogs he killed. So, tack on 5 more years. This guy will never be heard of again and will never play football again. He is a very stupid and cruel man towards animals.

I'm glad he's getting time, but he does need more time for all the damage he's done. All those poor dogs.