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

Former NFL player LeShon Johnson has been indicted for allegedly running a large dogfighting operation, during which authorities seized 190 dogs, the highest number ever taken from a single individual in a federal dogfighting case, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. The charges against Johnson include possessing pit bull-type dogs for use in an animal fighting venture and selling or transporting these dogs for the same purpose.

Johnson, who resides in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, was operating the dogfighting venture known as "Mal Kant Kennels" out of locations in Broken Arrow and Haskell. The dogs were confiscated in October 2024 as a result of the investigation into his activities. Johnson has a prior conviction related to animal fighting, having pleaded guilty to similar charges in 2004, which resulted in a five-year deferred sentence.

The Department of Justice is committed to prosecuting this case aggressively. Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated that animal abuse is a serious crime that merits harsh punishment, emphasizing the government's dedication to protecting innocent animals from harm. If convicted, Johnson could face up to five years in prison for each charge and a potential fine of $250,000.

Johnson allegedly bred dogs that had participated in multiple fights, selling "stud rights" and their puppies to further the dogfighting trade across the country. His actions contributed to the growth of the dogfighting industry while allowing him to profit financially, according to the Justice Department.

The FBI has made it clear that animal cruelty will not be tolerated, linking such activities to broader organized crime issues. FBI Director Kash Patel expressed that investigations into animal cruelty are taken seriously and are part of efforts to combat violent offenses. Johnson played as a running back in the NFL for teams including the Green Bay Packers and New York Giants during his career from 1994 to 1999.