Consumers release hounds on Michael Vick

There’s a reason why presumption of innocence is not a principle highly valued by companies that use celebrity endorsers: The general public seems to have a presumption of guilt. In a Rasmussen Reports poll conducted in the aftermath of Michael Vick’s dogfighting indictment, just 12 percent of respondents said they have a favorable impression of the Atlanta quarterback. Fifty-seven percent expressed an unfavorable opinion (including 33 percent “very” unfavorable). While 41 percent think Vick should have his day in court before the NFL decides whether to sideline him, they’re outnumbered by the 49 percent who think the league should suspend him immediately.