Former New York Giants running back LeShon Johnson is currently facing federal charges for allegedly running a large-scale dog-fighting operation, resulting in what the U.S. Department of Justice describes as the largest seizure of dogs ever in a federal case of this nature.
According to a 21-count indictment released by the DOJ, Johnson was accused of possessing nearly 200 “pit bull-type dogs” that were used in an illegal animal fighting venture. The indictment also alleged that Johnson was involved in the selling, transporting, and delivering of dogs for use in these illegal activities.
In October 2024, federal law enforcement seized a total of 190 dogs under the Animal Welfare Act. The DOJ, along with other officials, condemned the alleged crimes, with Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson stating that the prosecution of Johnson disrupted a major source of dogs used in other dog-fighting operations.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi described the animal abuse as “cruel” and “depraved,” emphasizing that such crimes deserve severe punishment. FBI Director Kash Patel also condemned dog fighting as a twisted form of entertainment.
Court documents revealed that Johnson, who played in the NFL during the 1990s, was operating two dog-fighting operations in two Oklahoma towns under the name “Mal Kant Kennels.” Prosecutors alleged that Johnson was selectively breeding “champion” and “grand champion” fighting dogs to create offspring for fighting purposes. Additionally, he was accused of selling stud rights and offspring of winning fighting dogs to other dog-fighting operations.
U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma stated that dog fighting is a cruel and blood-thirsty venture, not a legitimate business or sport. Johnson had previously pleaded guilty to state charges related to animal fighting in Oklahoma in 2004.
If convicted, Johnson could face up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count he is charged with. The former NFL player was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 1994 NFL Draft and later played for the Arizona Cardinals from 1995 to 1997, as well as a season with the New York Giants in 1999.
