Gastonia man accused of dogfighting sentenced to 7.5 years in prison: DA

GASTON COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A man charged with dogfighting in 2021 and 2025 has been sentenced to nine consecutive terms totaling 90-189 months in prison, according to a Gaston County District Attorney.

Rico Pagan, 53, was convicted of four counts of felony dogfighting and 13 counts of animal cruelty. In addition to the prison sentence, officials said Pagan is ordered to pay $6,523.18 in restitution to Humane World for Animals (formerly Humane Society) and $1,769.88 to Gaston County.

“Dogfighting is a brutal and senseless crime that causes immense suffering to animals and
endangers our communities,” District Attorney Travis Page said. “We are called to help the least
of us and to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves. Working together with the Gaston County Police and Humane World for Animals, and with an unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable—we not only spoke, but acted.”

On March 16, 2021, two decomposed dogs were found in a wooded area alongside Queens Road in Gastonia and were reported to the Gaston County Police Department.

During the investigation in 2021, nine dogs were taken from Pagan’s residence after animal care officers observed severe malnourishment, cruel restraint and injuries consistent with dogfighting. Investigators also found dogfighting paraphernalia such as weighted collars, logging chains, hanging rawhides, break stirs, and flirt poles, officials said.

Rugs and carpets were examined and found to have canine blood and DNA on them. The DA’s office said those are common in dogfighting pits because they give the dogs “traction” as they fight.

More dogs were taken from Pagan’s residence in 2025, and he was convicted accordingly as a result of the evidence collected from that investigation.

“This guilty plea sends a strong message — animal cruelty of any kind will not be tolerated in our community. This case was investigated and prosecuted successfully because of exceptional
teamwork between Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement specialists, criminal
detectives, and the District Attorney’s Office,” Zill said. “Dog fighting is a vicious and inhumane
crime, and this outcome proves what’s possible when dedicated professionals join forces to protect the most vulnerable. Our officers will continue to be a voice for the voiceless and ensure justice is served.”