RICHMOND, Va. -- CBS 46 has learned that Falcons quarterback Michael Vick has voluntarily surrendered to federal authorities to begin serving his sentence after pleading guilty to dogfighting.

Vick was scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 10.

Courthouse sources told the Richmond Times-Dispatch that Vick was transported from the U.S. Courthouse downtown to Northern Neck Regional Jail in Warsaw, Va. before 1:30 p.m Atlanta time.

Vick pled guilty to one count of conspiracy dealing with dogfighting allegations in Surry County, Va., earlier this year. Monday's order, signed by Judge Henry Hudson, says the order is not handed down because of a bond violation, but because Vick is interested in beginning his incarceration early.

In an e-mail sent to the AP, the U.S. attorney's office confirmed Vick's surrender but declined further comment.

A lawyer for Vick declined to comment, deferring to the court order.

Vick's decision to begin serving his time before sentencing was approved by the judge and Vick's lawyers.

This summer, Vick and three co-defendants pleaded guilty to charges related to a dogfighting operation financed by Vick. Bad Newz Kennels was based at a property owned by Vick in rural Surry County.

The NFL suspended Vick indefinitely and without pay.

Vick and his co-defendants still face state felony dogfighting charges.