VIDEO: Protest over Kelowna's alleged hamster torturer

Neighbours of an alleged animal abuser organized a protest outside the Kelowna Courthouse today.

People are uncomfortable living near the young man who is currently out on bail in a highly disturbing animal torture case.

Labute was slapped with a series of animal abuse charges in May of last year. Those charges included three counts of causing unnecessary pain or suffering to an animal. This after online posts suggested three hamsters had been tortured and killed.

"I'm hoping it will help our justice system, said organizer BoDreay Fraser. "This guy needs psychiatric help. These animals need justice." Fraser, who lives just down the street from the accused and said she doesn't feel comfortable knowing she's that close. "Absolutely not," she said. "I have animals."

Fellow protester Darlene Richard had similar comments to make. "I, unfortunately, live a little closer than I want to say," said Richard, "which has prompted me to put cameras on my house, because I have pets."

The protesters have little faith that the justice system can do much about it. So they're trying to raise public awareness about the case.

"I'm hoping that at lease this will shake it up a little bit," said Fraser, "and eyes will be on him and he will know that the community is watching him."

Today's court date was a pre-trial video appearance. It was Labute's first appearance since the charges were laid.