Curiosity seekers from as far away as Massachusetts lined up early and stood hip to hip in front of the Richmond Federal Courthouse Thursday where Atlanta Falcons Quarterback Michael Vick was to appear on dog fighting charges.

Vick supporters were far outnumbered by protesters, which was evident by the ‘boos’ that greeted Vick as he emerged from a sport utility vehicle at 3PM outside the courthouse.

Steve Stanaway of York County sat with his Chihuahua, Dinky. Stanaway said he's taken a side "with the dogs." He said many of his York County neighbors support Vick, a Newport News native.

Authorities accuse the player and three others of sponsoring "Bad Newz Kennels," a brutal dog fighting ring headquartered on a Surry County property Vick owned.

The gory details have incensed animal rights activists, who showed up in force Thursday.

Vick supporter Tyrell Allen figured Vick might have bet on dogs a few times, but he says Vick's case is only getting attention because he's a star. He said, "Dogs fight every day."