Amid boos from spectators, Michael Vick arrived at the federal courthouse in Richmond Thursday afternoon to answer accusations the NFL star was involved in a brutal dog fighting operation based in eastern Virginia.

The Atlanta Falcons quarterback was to appear at a bond hearing and enter a plea on dog fighting conspiracy charges. He said nothing as he walked into the courthouse, which was lined by spectators who began gathering at dawn.

Vick arrived at 3PM in a black sport utility vehicle and was booed by a crowd of hundreds as he emerged from the SUV.

Vick, in a dark suit, looked straight ahead as he walked up the ramp to the courthouse and did not respond to reporters.

Vick is accused with three others of conspiracy involving competitive dog fighting, procuring and training pit bulls for fighting, and conducting the enterprise across state lines. Federal prosecutors allege the operation, known as Bad Newz Kennels, operated on Vick's property in Surry County.

Charged along with Vick are 35-year-old Purnell Peace of Virginia Beach; 28-year-old Quanis Phillips of Atlanta; and 34-year-old Tony Taylor of Hampton.