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A former NFL, which runs back, was convicted of six crime counts of raising a large -scale dog -fighting trade in trade after a multi -day trial in Oklahoma.
The US Department of Justice’s Office of Public Affairs announced the conviction of Leshon Johnson (54), who was convicted of violating the federal animal welfare law’s ban on possessing, selling, transporting and delivering animals to be used in battle for ventures.
The announcement stated that Johnson, who played five seasons in the NFL with three different teams, surrendered to the government “190 dogs seized in this case.”
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When he runs back Leshon Johnson from Arizona Cardinals runs with the ball during a 31-21 loss to the New York Jets at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona. (Stephen Dunn/Allsport)
“This criminal served by the misery of innocent animals, and he will have serious consequences for his weak crimes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi in a statement. “This case emphasizes the Department of Justice’s obligation to protect animals from abuse – 190 dogs are now secure thanks to excellent collaboration from our lawyers and law enforcement components.”
FBI Director Kash Patel added: “The FBI will not stand for those who perpetuate the contemptible crime at dog fighting. Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, those who continue to engage in organized animal struggle and cruelty will be exposed to justice.”
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The conviction came from an unsealed indictment in March, which went into detail about Johnson’s operation on “Mal Kant Kennels.” Evidence was provided to the federal jury showing Johnson bred and trade with “Master” and “Grand Champion” fighting dogs.
“The authorities seized the 190 dogs from his property, which is the largest number ever seized from a single individual in a federal dog control case,” the message reads.
Johnson had a prior conviction from the state in 2004. He pleaded guilty to the crime in 2005, when he received a five-year postponed sentence.
When he runs back Leshon Johnson #32 from Arizona Cardinals wears football during the Cardinals 19-18 loss to Tampa Bay Buccaneers 19-18 victory at Houlihan’s stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Andy Lyons /Allsport)
Two years later, the NFL was hit by another shocking dog fight scandal when Atlanta Falcons star Quarterback Michael Vick pleaded guilty to his commitment to a fighting ring and spent 21 months in prison.
Johnson is now facing a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of up to $ 250,000 on each crime count.
“Dog fight is an evil and cruel crime that has no place in a civilized society,” said American lawyer Christopher J. Wilson of the eastern district of Oklahoma in a statement. “I praise the hard work of our law enforcement partners in investigating this case and holding the defendant responsible for his crimes.”
Johnson, who became a star at Northern Illinois University, was a third -round election of Green Bay Packers in the NFL draft in 1994. He did not earn a major role in Green Bay, which ended up moving on from him midway through the 1995 season.
Arizona Cardinals run back Leshon Johnson (32) in action against San Diego Chargers at Jack Murphy Stadium. (Peter Brouillet -usa Today Network)
Johnson joined Arizona Cardinals, where he would see most of his career garden on the NFL scene. He started eight of his 15 games in 1996 and rushed in 634 yards with three touchdowns, caught 15 passes in 176 yards and a score.
Johnson spent one more season in Arizona before coming to New York Giants in 1999, playing in a backup role. He also played in XFL after his time in the NFL was over.
