Michael Bennett pleads guilty to fraud

Former Vikings running back Michael Bennett pleaded guilty to wire fraud after he and others were busted in an undercover FBI operation.

Former Minnesota Viking Michael Bennett has pleaded guilty to his role in a South Florida tax refund and identity theft scheme.

Court records show Bennett pleaded guilty last week to one count of wire fraud. As part of a plea agreement, federal prosecutors agreed to recommend less than the possible 20-year sentence.

Prosecutors say the FBI operated an undercover check-cashing store in North Miami used by Bennett and seven others — including two other former football players — from February through April. The group allegedly cashed about $500,000 in fraudulent refund checks.

Former Oakland Raiders and New York Giants defensive tackle William Joseph has a change of plea hearing scheduled for next week. Louis Gachelin, who played professionally in Europe, previously pleaded guilty to theft charges.