Ex-Packers Star RB Charged in Massive Dog-Fighting Bust Involving 200 Pit Bulls

LeShon Eugene Johnson, a former NFL player, finds himself in serious legal trouble once again, this time facing federal charges related to dog fighting. The Haskell native is accused of operating a large-scale dog fighting and trafficking operation in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, a situation that is deeply concerning.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Johnson appeared in court last week and was charged with possessing 190 pit bull dogs, allegedly used for an animal fighting venture as well as for sale, transport, and delivery for similar purposes. This alarming case has led to his indictment by a grand jury in the Eastern District of Oklahoma for violating federal prohibitions against dog fighting under the Animal Welfare Act.

In a significant move, federal authorities seized 190 dogs from Johnson in October 2024, marking this as potentially the largest number of dogs seized from a single individual in a federal dog fighting case. These details underscore the severity of the charges he faces in this troubling situation.

Johnson is said to have operated a dog fighting ring known as “Mal Kant Kennels” in Broken Arrow and Haskell. This is not the first time Johnson has encountered legal issues tied to animal fighting; he previously operated Krazyside Kennels, which led to a guilty plea on state animal fighting charges back in 2004.

If convicted on the current charges, Johnson faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a substantial fine of up to $250,000 for each count. The implications of this case extend beyond just legal repercussions; they highlight the ongoing crisis of animal cruelty and raise questions about accountability in sports and beyond.

On a previous note, Johnson left his mark in college football, where he was a standout running back. After attending Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, he transferred to Northern Illinois University, ending his junior season as the leading rusher with 1,976 yards and finishing sixth in the 1993 Heisman Trophy voting. His professional career began when the Green Bay Packers selected him in the third round of the 1994 NFL Draft. Over six seasons in the NFL, Johnson played as a running back and kick returner, also contributing to teams like the Arizona Cardinals and the New York Giants.

When the dust settles, Johnson’s football legacy is overshadowed by his involvement in such a distressing situation. With 955 rushing yards, 434 receiving yards, and seven total touchdowns to his name, this former athlete now faces a much darker chapter, driven by actions that have shocked many within and beyond the sports community.