Our first editorial regarding allegations of dogfighting on Surry County property owned by Michael Vick suggested "the investigations and related news stories will open American eyes to an ugly world few know exists." We wish we had been wrong.

Vick's arraignment occurred yesterday. His trial will produce evidence the citizenry will find nauseating, repulsive, and compelling. His indictment makes for difficult reading. The scene outside the courthouse resembled a movie directed by Federico Fellini, a scene painted by Hieronymus Bosch, or a chapter written by Tom Wolfe. Bystanders almost expected a brass band to march into view.

Times-Dispatch stories have reported details about dogfighting. Although not so prevalent as, for instance, adultery and drug abuse, dogfighting, cockfighting, and similar dehumanizing entertainments happen more frequently that many naifs would assume. An underground exists.

West Virginia's Robert Byrd denounced dogfighting in a Senate speech whose biblical cadences appropriately assessed a mortal sin. Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry called on the NFL to discipline Vick. Robin Starr, head of the Richmond SPCA, discussed blood sports in a recent Commentary column. She will contribute columns on the subject as the case proceeds.