PHILADELPHIA (AP) - A person with knowledge of the situation tells The Associated Press that book signings for Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick scheduled at Barnes & Noble have been canceled because of threats against him.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation. Vick, and store employees, faced threats because of his role in running a dogfighting ring. Vick served 18 months in federal prison. He has played the last four years with the Eagles.

He was set to sign copies of his autobiography "Finally Free," at stores in Atlanta, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Byron Williamson, president of Worthy Publishing, tells Phillymag.com that "we cannot knowingly put anyone in harm's way, and therefore we must announce the cancellation of Mr. Vick's book-signing appearances." Williamson says the threats of violence have been reported to the police.

Copyright 2013 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.