Ex-NFL player LeShon Johnson finds himself in the legal spotlight again as he’s charged with masterminding a substantial dog fighting operation in Oklahoma.
Quick Takes
- Johnson was charged with organizing a dog fighting ring in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.
- The FBI seized 190 dogs from Johnson’s home, marking the largest seizure in a federal case.
- Johnson’s past includes a 2004 guilty plea for animal cruelty charges related to dog fighting.
- Johnson faces up to five years in prison for each dog fighting related charge.
A Tarnished Legacy
LeShon Eugene Johnson, known for his time on the football field battling lymphoma and pursuing a successful career with the NFL’s Green Bay Packers, is now facing federal charges. Johnson, aged 51, is charged with leading a significant dog fighting ring under the guise of “Mal Kant Kennels” in Oklahoma. Federal allegations paint a troubling picture of a once-celebrated athlete now fronting a cruel and illegal operation.
The legal actions arise from an October 2024 FBI raid where 190 pit bull-type dogs were seized. This marks the largest animal seizure in a single federal dog fighting case. The operation allegedly extended across the country, underpinning a widespread illegal dog fighting network.
Repeat Offender in the Spotlight
Authorities have charged Johnson with possessing dogs for fighting and engaging in their sale, transportation, and delivery. This isn’t Johnson’s first encounter with such allegations. In 2004, he pleaded guilty to Oklahoma state animal cruelty charges linked to dog fighting. The U.S. Department of Justice is intent on prosecuting repeat offenders like Johnson to curb this inhumane industry.
“Animal abuse is cruel, depraved, and deserves severe punishment,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “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.”
If convicted, Johnson faces penalties including a maximum of five years incarceration and fines reaching $250,000 per count. His alleged activities have not only supported the illegal dog fighting industry but also provided him with financial benefits.
From Athlete to Alleged Offender
Johnson’s NFL career spanned from stints with the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Giants to participation in college football where he achieved sixth place in the 1993 Heisman Trophy. This background is in stark contrast to his current accusations which greatly concern animal welfare advocates and federal authorities in Oklahoma.
“This strategic prosecution of an alleged repeat offender led to the seizure of 190 dogs destined for a cruel end. It disrupts a major source of dogs used in other dog fighting ventures,” stated DOJ officials.
The FBI’s continued investigation on this issue highlights the determination of law enforcement agencies to dismantle networks exploiting animals for illicit purposes and profit.
