LeShon Johnson convicted on six counts of dog fighting in Oklahoma trial
LeShon Johnson, a former NFL running back who once led college football in rushing yards, is now facing serious legal trouble. On August 5, 2025, a federal jury in Oklahoma convicted the 54-year-old of six felony charges for housing dogs used in criminal dog battles.
Having played in the NFL for the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Giants, Johnson could now face severe fines and spend years in prison. Fans who remember him as a 1990s football great have been stunned by these charges.
LeShon Johnson found guilty in Oklahoma for keeping dogs used in fights
The case against LeShon Johnson was brought forward in Oklahoma, where he lives. A federal jury found that he had six dogs that were bred and kept for dog-fighting activities. These were not just any charges, they are felony crimes.
Each one carries a punishment of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. That means Johnson could face as much as 30 years behind bars if given the maximum sentence.
The trial showed evidence that some of the dogs had wounds and scars linked to fighting. Officials said they found equipment and dog cages on his property that are often used in dogfighting setups. Still, Johnson was cleared of 17 other similar charges.
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FBI Director Kash Patel gave a statement after the verdict, saying, 'The FBI will not stand for those who continue the despicable crime of dogfighting.' He thanked all the law enforcement partners who worked together to bring the case to court.
LeShon Johnson's lawyer says he was only breeding dogs, not fighting them
LeShon Johnson's attorney, Billy Coyle, told reporters and the court that Johnson was just a dog breeder. He said his client raised American Pit Bull Terriers but was not running any fighting rings.
'Obviously the jury found that some of his dogs were probably or were used in dog fighting, and those were difficult charges to fight,' Coyle said.
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This isn't the first time LeShon Johnson has been connected to dogfighting. In 2005, he pleaded guilty to a similar crime.
The Green Bay Packers selected Johnson in 1994. He grabbed news in college in 1993 by running for 1,976 yards at Northern Illinois University. On the field, he was renowned for his speed and strength. But his name is back in the news years later for a far more sinister purpose. The date of sentencing has not yet been fixed.
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