Dogfighting case: Nearly 200 dogs seized from ex-NFL RB LeShon Johnson, the largest federal seizure from one individual

Former NFL running back LeShon Johnson has been indicted for allegedly operating a large-scale dogfighting operation, as per a report by AP. The indictment, announced by the U.S. Department of Justice, has led to the seizure of 190 dogs—marking the largest confiscation from a single individual in any federal dogfighting investigation.

LeShon Johnson, a resident of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, is facing serious federal charges, including the possession of pit bull-type dogs for use in animal fighting and the transportation and sale of these animals for similar purposes. Authorities allege that he ran an extensive operation under the name "Mal Kant Kennels" in both Broken Arrow and Haskell, Oklahoma.
The dogs were seized in October 2024 as part of an extensive investigation. According to court documents, Johnson allegedly bred dogs that had participated in and won multiple fights, selling their offspring and breeding rights to expand the illegal industry. The financial gains from these transactions contributed to the widespread growth of dogfighting across the country. If convicted, Johnson could face up to five years in prison for each count, along with a hefty $250,000 fine.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi did not hold back in her response to the case, stating, "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."
This is not Johnson’s first encounter with animal cruelty charges. In 2004, he pleaded guilty to state-level animal fighting charges in Oklahoma and received a five-year deferred sentence. However, this latest indictment signals a much larger and more organized operation, bringing national attention to the FBI’s intensified focus on dismantling underground dogfighting rings.
FBI Director Kash Patel underscored the severity of such crimes, stating, "The FBI will not tolerate criminals that harm innocent animals for their twisted form of entertainment. The FBI views animal cruelty investigations as a precursor to larger, organized crime efforts, similar to trafficking and homicides. This is yet another push in the FBI's crackdown of violent offenders harming our most innocent."
Despite the mounting allegations, Johnson’s legal team has yet to provide an official statement. His attorney, Courtney R. Jordan, has not responded to inquiries from the Associated Press regarding the indictment.
Johnson, who played as a running back for the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Giants from 1994 to 1999, now finds himself in the midst of a scandal that has overshadowed his football career. The once-promising athlete is now facing severe legal consequences that could define his legacy far beyond his contributions to the NFL.
Also Read: Steelers HC Mike Tomlin keeps it cool on Aaron Rodgers’ 2025 plans, says he’s fine with the waiting game
As federal prosecutors build their case, the outcome of this indictment will likely serve as a significant moment in the ongoing battle against illegal dogfighting in the U.S. Authorities remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, ensuring that those who exploit animals for financial gain and cruel entertainment are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.