News Releases
Professor Rebecca A. Huss named guardian of dogs in Michael Vick case
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Valparaiso University School of Law Professor Rebecca J. Huss has been named Guardian/Special Master of the dogs in the civil forfeiture case involving Michael Vick. Professor Huss, a noted expert on animal law, will determine the future of 48 dogs. Some of the dogs may be permanently placed, however others may require euthanizing to protect the public or other animals.
"As someone whose academic endeavors focus on the legal status and value of animals in our lives, I am honored to represent the interests of those at the heart of this case, the dogs," Professor Huss said upon accepting the appointment by the US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. Her appointment became official last night when Judge Henry E. Hudson signed a court order.
Professor Huss is traveling to Virginia, where the dogs are being cared for at six shelters. She will make recommendations for their future to the US Attorney after observing the dogs, reviewing evaluation reports from animal care professionals and interacting with the evaluation teams. The court would then be responsible for carrying out Professor Huss’ recommendations.
Professor Huss, on the faculty of Valparaiso University School of Law since 1999, said “The US Attorney’s office did an excellent job negotiating the plea agreement so that the interests of the dogs can be considered in this matter.”
The U.S. Attorney has asked that each pit bull be spayed, neutered and have microchips implanted, according to its motion filed Monday in U.S. District Court. The order said experts have determined there is placement potential for the remaining dogs. It also said additional dogs may be euthanized after more evaluation, but further assessment and consideration of all placement options is preferred.
In July, the United States filed a civil forfeiture action relating to approximately 53 pit bull dogs located on Mr. Vick's property. In August, Mr. Vick entered a plea of guilty to federal conspiracy charges stemming from his involvement in an animal fighting venture. In his plea agreement, Mr. Vick agreed to forfeit all interests in the dogs and make restitution for costs associated with disposition of the dogs. Four dogs subsequently died and a federal judge earlier this month ordered that one of the remaining 49 pit bulls seized be euthanized.
There is no deadline for Professor Huss to complete her duties. “My goal, and the court’s goal, is to find the best possible future for the dogs and the humans and other animals with which those dogs would come in contact, she said.” As with other guardianship proceedings, each dog in this case will be evaluated on an individual basis to determine the most appropriate future."
Jay Conison, Dean of Valparaiso University School of Law said "We are all very proud that Professor Huss is assisting in this case. Valparaiso Law places a high value on our faculty lending their expertise."
Related documents:
Copy of Court Order appointing Prof. Huss guardian of dogs in Vick case (PDF)
PDF version of 10/16/07 press release
For more information, please contact:
Tom Shaer, Tom Shaer Media, Inc.
Telephone: 224-305-2551
Email: shaermedia@aol.com
Valparaiso University School of Law: www.valpo.edu/law
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