FBI Arrests Former NFL Star for Running Dog Fighting Operation
From NFL Field to Federal Charges
LeShon Eugene Johnson, once known for his runs on the football field, now finds himself at the center of what prosecutors call the largest dogfighting operation bust in federal history. The former NFL running back has been indicted on 21 charges related to breeding and trafficking fighting dogs. According to federal investigators, Johnson operated “Mal Kant Kennels” from his property in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, where he allegedly bred and trained pit bulls specifically for fighting competitions across the United States.
The Justice Department’s indictment details how Johnson allegedly raised dogs to become “champions” and “grand champions” in the illegal fighting world. In dogfighting terminology, a “champion” designation requires three victories in fights, while a “grand champion” must win at least five matches. Officials report that one of Johnson’s dogs, named “Hogg,” had an astounding record of eight wins – particularly notable given that many fighting dogs suffer mortal injuries that prevent such extended “careers.”
Record-Breaking Seizure
The investigation culminated in the seizure of 190 pit bulls from Johnson’s property – a number that officials confirm represents the largest confiscation from a single individual in U.S. history. The dogs, many bearing physical and psychological scars of their treatment, were allegedly being bred, trained, and sold specifically for fighting. Johnson’s operation reportedly extended well beyond Oklahoma, with the indictment claiming he sold breeding rights for his “champion” dogs to buyers throughout the country.
“Animal abuse is cruel, depraved, and deserves severe punishment. The Department of Justice will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law and will remain committed to protecting innocent animals from those who would do them harm.” Attorney General Pam Bondi
The charges against Johnson represent a significant blow to what authorities describe as a nationwide underground network of illegal dog fighting. Animal welfare experts note that operations like the one Johnson allegedly ran serve as breeding grounds that fuel dog fighting across multiple states. Federal prosecutors have indicated that the investigation remains active, suggesting possible connections to other individuals and operations across state lines.
A Pattern of Illegal Activity
This is not Johnson’s first encounter with authorities over dog fighting. Court records show he previously pled guilty to similar charges at the state level in 2004, raising questions about how he was able to allegedly rebuild and expand his operation in the years since. The current federal charges carry significantly more severe potential penalties, reflecting both the scale of the operation uncovered and the Justice Department’s increased focus on animal fighting as a form of organized crime.
Johnson’s football career, which included stints with the New York Giants, Arizona Cardinals, and Green Bay Packers in the 1990s, has now been overshadowed by these serious allegations. The case highlights the disturbing reality that illegal dog fighting continues to persist despite federal laws criminalizing the practice. Animal welfare advocates point to the case as evidence of the need for stricter enforcement and harsher penalties for those involved in organized animal fighting operations.
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