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, resulting in 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, a resident of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, faces charges related to possessing pit bull-type dogs for an animal fighting venture, as well as for selling and transporting dogs for such purposes.

The dogs were confiscated from Johnson in October 2024, during the investigation into his operation known as "Mal Kant Kennels," located in Broken Arrow and Haskell, Oklahoma. This operation allegedly involved breeding dogs that had won multiple fights and selling their offspring and "stud rights" to other dogfighters across the country, contributing to the growth of the dogfighting industry while generating profit for Johnson.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi condemned the case, emphasizing the severity of animal abuse and promising that the Department of Justice would pursue the matter vigorously. She highlighted a commitment to safeguarding innocent animals from harm and ensuring that offenders face strict penalties.

Johnson, who previously pleaded guilty to state animal fighting charges in 2004 and received a deferred sentence, now faces potential federal charges that could result in up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count if convicted. The FBI has expressed its dedication to tackling animal cruelty, viewing these investigations as integral to addressing larger organized crime issues.

As a former running back in the NFL, Johnson played for teams including the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Giants between 1994 and 1999. His current legal troubles mark a troubling turn in a once-promising athletic career.