Former NFL Player Indicted on 21 Charges in Massive Dog Fighting Bust
Former NFL running back LeShon Eugene Johnson has been indicted on 21 charges in a massive federal dog fighting bust. The Justice Department reported that 190 pit bulls were recovered in what they believe to be the largest seizure of fighting dogs from a single individual in U.S. history. Johnson, a 54-year-old from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, is accused of operating a large-scale breeding and trafficking operation known as “Mal Kant Kennels” as well as raising fighting dogs himself. This is not the first time Johnson has faced dog fighting charges, as he pleaded guilty to similar charges at the state level in 2004.
Disrupting a Major Source of Dogs Used in Dog Fighting Ventures
Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson stated, “This strategic prosecution of an alleged repeat offender led to the seizure of 190 dogs destined for a cruel end. It disrupts a major source of dogs used in other dog fighting ventures.” Johnson allegedly bred and sold “champion” and “grand champion” fighting pit bulls across the country. Some of the dogs had names like War Pony, Boot Stomper, and Hogg, with the latter being known for winning eight fights. Prosecutors noted that this was an unusually high number of victories, as dogs often suffer mortal injuries during brutal fights. To achieve the title of “grand champion,” a dog needs to win five fights, while a “champion” must win three.
Commitment to Protecting Innocent Animals from Harm
Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized the severity of animal abuse, stating, “Animal abuse is cruel, depraved, and deserves severe punishment.” The Department of Justice is fully committed to prosecuting this case and protecting innocent animals from harm. Court filings revealed a trove of evidence recovered from Johnson’s phone, including text messages, a Facebook page, CashApp history, emails discussing sales, and pedigrees for the dogs. Authorities also seized dogs from two separate properties owned by Johnson.
FBI’s Stance on Animal Cruelty Cases
FBI Director Kash Patel expressed the bureau’s view on animal cruelty cases, seeing them as a stepping stone to organized crime, including trafficking and murder. He stated, “The FBI will not tolerate criminals that harm innocent animals for their twisted form of entertainment.” This highlights the seriousness with which law enforcement agencies are taking cases like Johnson’s.
Former NFL Player’s Legal Troubles
Johnson, who played for the Packers, Cardinals, and Giants during his six-year NFL career in the 1990s, was also involved in a 2014 class action lawsuit against the NFL. The lawsuit accused the league of failing to protect players from concussions. Now, Johnson faces up to five years in prison on each count if convicted, along with a $250,000 fine.
Conclusion
The indictment of former NFL player LeShon Eugene Johnson on 21 charges in a massive federal dog fighting bust has shed light on the cruel world of dog fighting. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting innocent animals from harm and the commitment of law enforcement agencies to prosecute such cases to the fullest extent of the law.
