Trusted Coach, Dark Secret: Family Dog’s Fate Reportedly Hidden for Over a Year
CARLSTADT, NJ – A beautiful Labrador mix named Roxy is at the center of a horrifying animal cruelty case in Bergen County.
Mark Paiotti, 41, of East Rutherford, is accused of drowning the 18-month-old family dog in a bathtub on December 16, 2024, and then stashing her remains in a garbage bag in the garage.
Independent Online News exclusively reports Paiotti told his wife and four children he had re-homed Roxy, and later told his oldest child the dog had run away. They report his ex-wife found the remains about 15 months later while searching for items for the town garage sale.
An online search shows Paiotti is an experienced safety professional currently serving as the North East Regional Safety Manager at Herc Rentals (formerly Hertz Equipment Rental). He has held this position since June 2021. That’s according to his LinkedIn profile.
Independent Online News also exclusively reports that Paiotti is/was a respected football and baseball coach with the East Rutherford/Carlstadt/Maywood Jr. Wildcats Football and Cheer program, all affiliated with the Bergen County Junior Football League.
Arrest records confirm Paiotti was charged with cruelty to animals on March 27, 2026, and released pending trial.
Roxy was adopted from 2 Hands Saving 4 Paws Humane Society at a pop-up event at Pet Supplies Plus in Wallington. The rescue says they are absolutely devastated and will make sure he receives the fullest punishment possible.
CALL TO ACTION:
Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office
201.226.5532 – Please ask for the Animal Cruelty Task Force
Reference:
Case 26001481 (Bergen County).
His SBI number is 3855 (01J)
SOURCES: Independent Online News, 2 Hands Saving 4 Paws Humane Society
#dogs#JusticeForRoxy#CarlstadtNJ#MarkPaiotti#therealpaulmueller
Fair use. All presumed innocent.