Ariana Belfort stood outside the courthouse, joined by animal activists, calling for upgraded charges against her neighbor, who prosecutors say set fire to her home, killing her two beloved dogs.

The fire broke out on Memorial Day while Belfort's pets, Jack and Jameson, were inside.

"Jack and Jameson were brutally murdered; they were burned alive," Belfort said, describing the horror.

Belfort rushed home that day only to find the house engulfed in flames. Her dogs did not make it out.

Prosecutors allege the fire was intentionally set by Jahan Kia, Belfort's neighbor, who had been living in the basement of the home. The house on Eileen Avenue has since been demolished, and Belfort and her three children have been forced to move in with family.

Nassau District Attorney’s Office issued the following statement:

"This was a shocking, senseless act, and my office is considering upgrading the charges in this matter…. I have long called for harsher penalties for animal abusers."

Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz also spoke out, calling for legislative change.

"Our laws are antiquated," he said.

He announced that he is introducing a bill this week that would make killing a pet punishable by up to 25 years to life in prison.

Kia pleaded not guilty to the current charges, which include arson, criminal mischief and torturing or injuring animals.

No bail has been set in his case.