Men Charged in Federal Dog Fighting Case, 25 Pit Bulls Rescued

Two Statesville men have been charged in federal court for allegedly operating a multi-state pit bull breeding business that supplied dogs for illegal dog fighting activities, according to federal prosecutors.

A federal indictment unsealed Monday charges Juelz Christopher Daniels, 19, and Reginald Lionel Goodson Jr., 55, with conspiracy to violate the Animal Welfare Act. Daniels also faces additional charges related to the possession, training, sale, and advertising of fighting dogs.

Authorities arrested both men on June 18 and executed search warrants at three residences, where investigators rescued and seized 25 pit bull-type dogs, including puppies. Law enforcement officials also recovered equipment and paraphernalia allegedly used to breed and train dogs for fighting.

According to the indictment, Daniels and Goodson operated dog kennels, including one known as "Hoodwoods Kennels," from January 2021 through May 2026. Prosecutors allege the defendants bred, housed and trained pit bull-type dogs specifically for participation in dog fights.

Investigators claim the operation used equipment commonly associated with dog fighting, including treadmills, bite sticks, heavy chains, animal hides and training devices known as spring poles and flirt poles designed to increase a dog's strength and endurance.

Federal prosecutors allege the men selectively bred dogs for traits considered desirable in dog fighting circles, including aggressiveness and what participants refer to as "gameness" — a willingness to continue fighting despite severe injury.

"It’s unbelievable people still engage in dog fighting activities," U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson said in a statement. "We are here to protect innocent animals from the abuse and suffering that comes with dog fighting."

The indictment further alleges that Daniels used Facebook groups and private messages to advertise and sell dogs bred for fighting. Prosecutors say the advertisements highlighted the animals' bloodlines and pedigrees, often claiming they descended from champion fighting dogs.

According to the court records, Daniels allegedly promoted dogs by referencing pedigree designations associated with successful fighting dogs and breeders. Prosecutors contend the defendants discussed dog training, bloodlines, prices and delivery arrangements with prospective buyers through social media communications.

"When the FBI investigates illegal dog-fighting operations, we're not just stopping cruelty, we are disrupting violent criminal networks that harm both people and animals," said Reid Davis, special agent in charge of the FBI's Charlotte Field Office.

If convicted, Daniels and Goodson each face up to five years in federal prison on the conspiracy charge. Daniels faces additional penalties of up to five years for each count involving the possession, sale and advertising of fighting dogs.

Federal officials emphasized that the charges are allegations and that both defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

The investigation involved the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, the Iredell County Sheriff's Office, Burke County Sheriff's Office, Catawba County Sheriff's Office, Caldwell County Sheriff's Office and the Hickory Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Armstrong is prosecuting the case.

Authorities encourage anyone with information about animal fighting activities to contact local law enforcement or the USDA Office of Inspector General hotline.