Introduction to the Case
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.
Charges Against LeShon Johnson
Johnson, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, 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 Dogfighting Operation
The dogs were taken from Johnson in October 2024. He allegedly ran the dogfighting operation “Mal Kant Kennels” in Broken Arrow and Haskell, Oklahoma, 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.”
Previous Convictions and Current Case
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.
Details of the Dogfighting Venture
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.
Potential Penalties
If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison on each count and a $250,000 fine.
FBI Statement
“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 severity of animal cruelty and the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat such crimes. The indictment and potential penalties serve as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in illegal activities that harm innocent animals.
FAQs
- Q: How many dogs were seized from LeShon Johnson?
- A: 190 dogs were seized, the most ever taken from one person in a federal dogfighting investigation.
- Q: What charges does LeShon Johnson face?
- A: He faces charges of possessing dogs for use in an animal fighting venture and for selling, transporting, and delivering a dog for use in an animal fighting venture.
- Q: What are the potential penalties if LeShon Johnson is convicted?
- A: He could face up to five years in prison on each count and a $250,000 fine.
- Q: Did LeShon Johnson have any previous convictions related to animal fighting?
- A: Yes, he pleaded guilty to state animal fighting charges in 2004 in Oklahoma.
