U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd says dog fighting is barbaric and the "hottest places in hell" are reserved for those who promote such activities.

Byrd fought tears as he lashed out against dog fighting in a speech Thursday at the U.S. Capitol.

Federal agents have charged Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and three others with procuring and training pit bulls for fighting in Virginia and elsewhere. Investigators say some losing dogs died in the pit or were later electrocuted, drowned, hanged or shot.

Byrd says he won't prejudge the men's guilt or innocence. But the West Virginia Democrat says one is left wondering who are the real animals, the creatures inside or outside the ring.

As Byrd left the Senate chamber, a Senate page and TV reporter shook his hand and thanked him, and a young woman had her photo taken with him.