A former NFL player now stands accused of running a large-scale dogfighting operation. Authorities seized nearly 200 pit bulls from his properties in Oklahoma. The investigation has shocked animal welfare groups and law enforcement alike, ABC7 Chicago reports.

The suspect, LeShon Johnson, allegedly operated under the name “Mal Kant Kennels” in both Broken Arrow and Haskell, Oklahoma, according to UPI. Officials claim he bred dogs that had won multiple fights and later sold breeding rights and offspring to other dogfighters. The scale of the operation has made this one of the largest dogfighting cases in U.S. history.

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Authorities seized nearly 200 pit bull-type dogs.

Law Enforcement and Legal Action

Federal authorities have charged Johnson with multiple violations under the Animal Welfare Act. Court documents reveal that he faces charges related to possessing, selling, transporting, and delivering dogs for use in illegal fights, reports US News. If convicted, he could serve up to five years in prison per count and incur a fine of $250,000 per offense.

The U.S. Department of Justice has vowed to prosecute the case vigorously. Attorney General Pamela Bondi said, "Animal abuse is cruel, depraved, and deserves severe punishment.” The FBI director also noted that such crimes often signal broader criminal networks and can lead to other severe offenses,⁵ ESPN690 reports.

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Dogs were confiscated during a coordinated raid in October 2024.

Operation Details and History

Investigators report that Johnson’s operation stretched across multiple locations. The dogs were seized in October 2024 during a coordinated law enforcement sting, ABC7 Chicago reports. Authorities describe the raid as the largest of its kind in a federal dogfighting investigation. Johnson’s history with animal fighting is not new. He previously pleaded guilty in 2004 to state charges related to animal fighting and received a deferred sentence.

Documents indicate that his network extended beyond local circles. He allegedly traded dogs across state lines, fueling an underground market that supplies other dogfighting rings. The trafficking aspect of his business allowed him to profit significantly while contributing to a brutal industry.

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This is the largest seizure in a federal dogfighting case.

Community and Expert Reactions

Animal welfare experts express deep concern about the welfare of the dogs and the widespread nature of the trade. One official told US News, "the seizure of 190 dogs marks a major victory in our fight against animal cruelty.”

Law enforcement officials are equally firm. FBI Director Kash Patel declared, "The FBI will not tolerate criminals that harm innocent animals for their twisted form of entertainment."

Local residents in Broken Arrow and Haskell are stunned by the revelations. The quiet towns now face the aftermath of a high-profile criminal case that has drawn national attention. Officials hope that this case will serve as a strong deterrent against similar operations across the country.

The Path Forward

The legal proceedings promise to be lengthy and complex. Johnson’s lawyer, Courtney R. Jordan, has yet to provide further comment. Meanwhile, federal investigators continue to unravel the full extent of his operations. The authorities remain committed to ensuring that all participants in this illegal venture are held accountable.

This case highlights the dark underbelly of illegal animal fighting in the United States. The systematic breeding, trading, and trafficking of fighting dogs have led to severe cruelty and widespread suffering. Law enforcement agencies from multiple states have coordinated to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The investigation is far from over. More details are expected as the trial progresses and further evidence comes to light. For now, the massive seizure of nearly 200 dogs marks a significant milestone in the fight against animal cruelty. The eyes of the nation remain on this case as officials push forward with determination and resolve.