Former NFL running back Leshon Johnson, 54, has been convicted by a federal jury on six felony counts tied to a dogfighting and trafficking operation, which involved the largest number of dogs ever seized in such a case.
The operation led to the government taking custody of 190 dogs, which are now under the care of the U.S. Marshals Service as part of the asset forfeiture process. Johnson, who played for the Green Bay Packers, St. Louis Cardinals, and New York Giants, has not yet been sentenced but could face severe penalties.
Johnson’s Nationwide Dog Trafficking Operation Fueled Growth of Organized Animal Fighting Rings
Johnson’s conviction follows a long history of involvement in illegal dogfighting activities, including a previous conviction in 2004. His latest indictment, unsealed earlier this year, revealed that he operated a business called “Mal Kant Kennels” out of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.
The federal jury heard compelling evidence that Johnson bred, sold, and trafficked dogs specifically for fighting, many of which were described as “champion” or “grand champion” fighters.
Leshon Johnson (NFL)The U.S. Department of Justice revealed that Johnson’s operation had national reach, trafficking dogs to other states including Oregon and Indiana. His efforts contributed to the spread of dogfighting across the country, making his case particularly significant in the eyes of federal prosecutors.
While Johnson was not convicted of directly participating in dogfights, his involvement in breeding and selling dogs for the purpose of fighting formed the basis of the charges.
Federal Officials Condemn Dogfighting Crimes, Emphasize Commitment to Animal Cruelty Enforcement
Attorney General Pamela Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel both condemned Johnson’s actions, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to ending animal cruelty and organized dogfighting.
Patel called the crime “despicable,” while Bondi praised the collaboration among law enforcement agencies that ensured the safety of 190 abused dogs. The trial, held in the U.S. District Court in Muskogee, saw the jury deliberate for two days before delivering the verdict.
Out of the 19 counts Johnson faced for possession of dogs used in dogfighting, he was found guilty of only two. However, he was also convicted on additional counts related to the sale and transport of dogs across state lines for fighting purposes.
Johnson now faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each of the six counts. His sentencing date has yet to be scheduled, and the case marks a critical legal win in the ongoing fight against animal cruelty in the United States.
