A former New York Giants running back has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly breeding dogs for dogfighting operations across the country.
According to Tulsa-based News 2 Oklahoma, LeShon Johnson was arrested after an FBI raid on a home in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, uncovered 190 pit bulls. This marks the largest single seizure of dogs by the federal government from one individual. Authorities allege that Johnson bred the dogs through his kennel business and sold them to dogfighters nationwide.
Johnson faces 21 federal charges under the Animal Welfare Act. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine per count, according to the Department of Justice. This is not Johnson’s first run-in with dogfighting charges—he was convicted in 2004 on state charges but avoided jail time.
U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson of the Eastern District of Oklahoma praised federal officials for dismantling the alleged operation.
“Dogfighting is a cruel, bloodthirsty venture, not a legitimate business or sporting activity,” Wilson said. “I applaud the investigative work of the FBI and the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division in detecting and dismantling breeding operations that only serve to propagate this deplorable conduct.”
Originally drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the third round of the 1994 NFL Draft, Johnson played five seasons in the league. After appearing in just 14 games with the Packers, he joined the Arizona Cardinals before signing with the Giants in 1999. During his lone season in New York, he rushed for 143 yards and two touchdowns over 16 games.
