RICHMOND, Va. -- Michael Vick voluntarily turned himself in Monday to begin serving his sentence before his scheduled hearing Dec. 10 in Richmond, Va., ESPN reported.

By beginning his sentence Monday, the sentence handed to Vick on Dec. 10 could potentially end earlier.

"From the beginning, Mr. Vick has accepted responsibility for his actions, and his self-surrender further demonstrates that acceptance," Billy Martin, one of Vick's lawyers, said in a statement. "Michael wants to again apologize to everyone who has been hurt in this matter and he thanks all of the people who have offered him and his family prayers and support during this time."

Sources told ESPN the suspended Falcons quarterback did not violate his bond. Vick's decision to begin serving his time before sentencing was approved by the judge and Vick's lawyers.

Vick is being held at Northern Neck Regional Jail in Warsaw, a U.S. marshall told The Associated Press. He will remain in jail until his sentencing in three weeks.

The order filed in U.S. District Court said "Vick has indicated his desire to voluntarily enter custody prior to his sentencing hearing. It appearing appropriate to do so, the U.S. Marshal is ordered to take custody of the Defendant immediately upon his surrender."

Ronald Bacigal, a University of Richmond law professor who specializes in criminal law and criminal procedure, told The Associated Press there are no real direct legal benefits to Vick's decision to turn himself in before sentencing.

"I don't think there's any benefits except getting (the sentence) started," Bacigal said. "I would think he's purely thinking about timing as far as when he can get back to his football."

Vick and his three co-defendants pleaded guilty to federal dogfighting charges. They face up to five years in jail, but it is expected Vick will receive a sentence of about 1 1/2 years. The former Virginia Tech star and No. 1 NFL draft pick also faces state charges in Virginia.

In his written plea, Vick admitted helping kill six to eight pit bulls and supplying money for gambling on the fights. He said he did not personally place any bets or share in any winnings.