Nearly 200 dogs seized from ex-NFL player in dogfighting case

BROKEN ARROW, Okla. (AP) - Former NFL player LeShon Johnson has been indicted for allegedly running a large dogfighting operation, leading to the seizure of 190 dogs, the highest number ever taken from a single individual in a federal dogfighting investigation, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Johnson, based in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, faces charges of possessing pit bull-type dogs for use in animal fighting ventures, as well as selling and transporting dogs for the same purpose.

The dogs were seized from Johnson in October 2024, and court documents reveal that he operated under the name "Mal Kant Kennels" in both Broken Arrow and Haskell, Oklahoma. Attorney General Pamela Bondi expressed her commitment to prosecuting the case vigorously, emphasizing the cruelty and depravity of animal abuse and the importance of protecting innocent animals.

Previously, Johnson pleaded guilty to state animal fighting charges in 2004, receiving a five-year deferred sentence. His attorney, Courtney R. Jordan, has declined to comment on the current case. Allegations indicate that Johnson bred dogs with successful fighting records and sold their offspring and breeding rights to other dogfighters, thereby financially benefiting from the dogfighting industry.

If convicted of the current charges, Johnson could face significant penalties, including up to five years in prison for each count and a possible fine of $250,000. FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the bureau's serious stance against animal cruelty, considering such investigations as linked to broader organized crime issues, including trafficking and violent crime.

LeShon Johnson, who was a running back in the NFL from 1994 to 1999, played for teams such as the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals, and the New York Giants. This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat animal cruelty and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.