Jamie Foxx has defended disgraced football star Michael Vick, who is expected to serve jail time for his involvement in illegal dog fighting matches.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Vick was indicted by a federal grand jury for "conspiracy to travel in interstate commerce in aid of unlawful activities and to sponsor a dog in animal fighting venture" last month and has said he will plead guilty in court next week.

While Foxx condemns cruelty to animals, he believes Vick did not realize the implications of his sponsorship of the dog fighting ring.

He says, "It's a cultural thing, I think. Most brothers didn't know that, you know. I used to see dogs fighting in the neighborhood all the time. I didn't know that was Fed time. So, Mike probably just didn't read his handbook on what not to do as a black star.

"I know that cruelty to animals is bad, but sometimes people shoot people and kill people and don't get time. I think in this situation, he really didn't know the extent of it, so I always give him the benefit of the doubt."

Vick faces a potential of 12 to 18 months in prison when he is sentenced.

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)