Former NFL player LeShon Johnson has been convicted of six felony counts related to his involvement in a federal dog-fighting operation. The federal jury in Oklahoma found the ex-Giants running back guilty of violating the federal Animal Welfare Act’s prohibitions against possessing, selling, transporting, and delivering animals for fighting ventures.
The Department of Justice announced that Johnson will be sentenced at a later date and could face up to five years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for each count. Authorities seized a total of 190 dogs, all of which Johnson has surrendered to the government. The government is now pursuing forfeiture of these animals.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi expressed the severity of Johnson’s crimes, stating that he profited from the misery of innocent animals. She commended the collaborative efforts of attorneys and law enforcement in ensuring the safety of the 190 dogs involved in the case.
Johnson was charged in March as part of what federal law enforcement described as the largest seizure of dogs in a federal case. He admitted to owning nearly 200 “pit bull-type dogs” for his animal fighting venture known as “Mal Kant Kennels.”
During the trial in Oklahoma, prosecutors presented evidence showing that Johnson bred and trafficked dogs for fighting purposes. The FBI Director, Kash Patel, emphasized the agency’s commitment to combating organized animal fighting and cruelty, stating that those involved will face justice.
LeShon Johnson had a five-year career in the NFL, being drafted by the Packers in 1994 and playing for the Cardinals from 1995-1997. He later joined the Giants for the 1999 season.
The case against Johnson serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting animals from abuse and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement and legal authorities have ensured that justice is served in this disturbing case.
