A former NFL player has been convicted on six felony counts related to dogfighting. LeShon Johnson, 54, a former running back for the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Giants, was found guilty by a federal jury in Oklahoma. The conviction involved breeding and trafficking “grand champion” dogs and their offspring for dogfighting.
Johnson faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count. Following the verdict, he surrendered 190 dogs from his operation, Mal Kant Kennels, which is the largest number ever seized from a single person in a federal dogfighting case.
The conviction recalls the 2007 case against then-NFL quarterback Michael Vick, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy involving illegal dogfighting and was sentenced to 23 months in prison. Johnson’s defense attorney stated that his client was acquitted of 17 counts related to possessing dogs for fighting and is a “good person” who loves his dogs.
Dogfighting is a felony in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with over 40,000 people participating in enterprises that breed, condition, and train dogs for fighting. The breed of choice for dogfighting in the United States is the American pit bull terrier.
“This case underscores the Department of Justice’s commitment to protecting animals from abuse,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The confiscation of 190 dogs will ensure their safety and provide a positive outcome for these innocent animals.”
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/05/us/leshon-johnson-dogfighting-oklahoma