Former NFL Player Indicted for Operating Large Dogfighting Venture
BROKEN ARROW, Okla. (AP) — Former NFL player LeShon Johnson has been indicted for allegedly operating a large dogfighting venture that resulted in authorities seizing 190 dogs — considered the most ever taken from one person in a federal dogfighting investigation, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
The Charges Against LeShon Johnson
Johnson, of Broken Arrow, Okla., has been charged with possessing the pit bull-type dogs for use in an animal fighting venture and for selling, transporting and delivering a dog for use in an animal fighting venture, the department said Tuesday.
The dogs were taken from Johnson in October 2024. He allegedly ran the dogfighting operation “Mal Kant Kennels” in Broken Arrow and Haskell, Okla., according to court documents.
Statement from the Attorney General
“Animal abuse is cruel, depraved, and deserves severe punishment,” Attorney General Pamela Bondi said in a statement. “The Department of Justice will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law and will remain committed to protecting innocent animals from those who would do them harm.”
Related News
Crime in The News
Related: Texas’ dog and cockfighting laws must get tougher
Previous Convictions and Current Allegations
Johnson previously pleaded guilty to state animal fighting charges in 2004 in Oklahoma. He was given a five-year deferred sentence, according to court documents.
Johnson’s lawyer, Courtney R. Jordan, declined to comment on the case.
Johnson allegedly bred dogs that had won as many as five fights and then sold “stud rights” and their offspring to other dogfighters. The trafficking took place across the U.S. and helped to grow the dogfighting industry, while resulting in Johnson profiting financially, according to the Justice Department.
Possible Penalties and FBI Statement
If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison on each count and a $250,000 fine.
“The FBI will not tolerate criminals that harm innocent animals for their twisted form of entertainment,” FBI Director Kash Patel said in a statement. “The FBI views animal cruelty investigations as a precursor to larger, organized crime efforts, similar to trafficking and homicides. This is yet another push in the FBI’s crackdown of violent offenders harming our most innocent.”
LeShon Johnson’s NFL Career
Johnson was a running back who played for the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals and New York Giants from 1994-1999.
Conclusion
The case against LeShon Johnson highlights the ongoing issue of dogfighting in the United States and the need for stronger laws and enforcement to protect animals from cruelty and abuse. The Department of Justice and the FBI are committed to investigating and prosecuting cases of animal cruelty, and individuals found guilty of such crimes can face severe penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is dogfighting and why is it illegal?
A: Dogfighting is a form of animal cruelty where dogs are forced to fight each other, often for the entertainment of spectators. It is illegal in the United States and considered a form of animal abuse.
Q: What are the penalties for dogfighting?
A: The penalties for dogfighting can include imprisonment, fines, and other penalties. In LeShon Johnson’s case, he could face up to five years in prison on each count and a $250,000 fine if convicted.
Q: How can I report suspected dogfighting or animal cruelty?
A: If you suspect dogfighting or animal cruelty, you can report it to your local authorities or animal welfare organizations, such as the Humane Society or the ASPCA.
