Federal Jury Convicts Two Former Pagan Motorcycle Members
The jury found the two men guilty of violent assaults against members of a rival motorcycle gang in Missouri.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Sex Crimes
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A federal jury has convicted two former members of the Pagan's Motorcycle Club for their roles in violent assaults targeting rival gang members. The defendants were found guilty of charges related to racketeering and the use of weapons during these violent confrontations.
Why it matters
These convictions represent a significant legal outcome in the ongoing effort to dismantle organized violence between rival motorcycle clubs in the region. The legal action highlights the severity with which federal prosecutors are pursuing members involved in gang-related retaliation.
Charles E. Smith faces a maximum of life in federal prison, while John Travis Fisher faces a maximum sentence of three years. Both were convicted in federal court for their involvement in racketeering-related violent assaults.
The players
Charles E. Smith, Jr.
He is a former member of the Pagan's Motorcycle Club who faces a potential life sentence after being convicted of racketeering and firearms charges.
John Travis Fisher
He is a 52-year-old former Pagan's Motorcycle Club member from Mannford, Oklahoma, who was convicted of attempted assault in aid of racketeering.
The details
The defendants utilized firearms and an axe handle to force a rival gang member off the road in Blue Springs, resulting in the victim sustaining seven gunshot wounds. Evidence presented at trial detailed how the group targeted rivals for retaliation, including an incident in Topeka that was abandoned due to internal disputes.
Timeline
On September 3, 2022, Fisher and others traveled to Topeka to target a rival gang.
On September 17, 2022, Smith and others assaulted a rival gang member in Blue Springs.
On October 23, 2026, a federal jury returned guilty verdicts against the two men.
Legal Context
These convictions follow the established pattern of applying the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act to dismantle violent criminal enterprises. Such cases mark a departure from local simple assault prosecutions by elevating gang-related violence to federal racketeering charges.
These convictions signal an active federal crackdown on motorcycle gang violence that has historically threatened public safety in parts of Missouri. Residents in affected areas may see a continued focus from law enforcement agencies aimed at deterring future inter-gang retaliation.
The takeaway
These verdicts underscore the severe federal consequences for individuals involved in organized motorcycle gang warfare. Residents should remain aware that authorities continue to aggressively monitor and prosecute these criminal groups to ensure regional safety.
Further reading
For more on legal proceedings in the state, visit the Sex Crimes section.
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