Arbitrator says Falcons get Vick bonus

ATLANTA, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- The Atlanta Falcons are entitled to recover $20 million in bonus money paid to suspended quarterback Michael Vick, an arbitrator ruled Tuesday.

Stephen Burbank, the University of Pennsylvania law professor and special master who heard the arbitration hearing, agreed with the Falcons, who said Vick used the proceeds from his contract to finance an illicit dogfighting ring.

"We are certainly pleased with today's ruling," the Falcons said in a statement. "It is the first step in a process that our club has undertaken in an attempt to recoup significant salary cap space that will allow us to continue to build our football team today and in future years."

The National Football League Players' Association plans to appeal on Vick's behalf.

Vick pleaded guilty to federal charges in August in which he acknowledged being part of a Virginia-based dogfighting ring since 2001. He is awaiting sentencing Dec. 10.

A Canadian bank filed a federal lawsuit against Vick because he defaulted on a $2.5 million line of credit. Vick also tested positive for marijuana last month, a violation of a court order that he stay sober in exchange for bail.

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