In a case that underscores the serious consequences faced by those who engage in animal cruelty, driven by profit and greed, a federal jury in Oklahoma has convicted Leshon Eugene Johnson, 54, of Broken Arrow, on six felony counts for violating the federal Animal Welfare Act. Johnson was found guilty of possessing, selling, transporting, and delivering dogs for use in brutal dog fighting ventures, a heinous practice that continues to negatively affect communities and devastate the lives of innocent animals.
The verdict follows a multi-day trial that revealed the shocking scale of Johnson’s operation. Authorities seized 190 dogs from Johnson’s property, marking the largest single seizure in a federal dog fighting case to date. These dogs were not simply animals under his care, they were victims bred and forced into lives of violence under the guise of a kennel operation called “Mal Kant Kennels.” Johnson profited by breeding, training, and selling “champion” and “grand champion” fighting dogs, perpetuating a cycle of abuse and torment.
After his conviction, Johnson surrendered all 190 dogs to the federal government, which is now pursuing forfeiture of the animals. The dogs, many of whom bear the physical and psychological scars of their past, are being cared for through the U.S. Marshals Service’s asset forfeiture program.
“This criminal profited off of the misery of innocent animals and he will face severe consequences for his vile crimes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This case underscores the Department of Justice’s commitment to protecting animals from abuse — 190 dogs are now safe thanks to outstanding collaborative work by our attorneys and law enforcement components.”
Dog fighting is not a victimless crime. It is a violent underground activity that not only subjects dogs to unimaginable suffering but also fosters broader criminal behavior and endangers communities. The dogs forced into these fights endure repeated trauma; beaten into submission, trained to maim, and often killed when deemed no longer useful.
“This conviction sends a strong message that those who abuse animals for entertainment and profit will face serious consequences under federal law,” said Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and our partners are committed to aggressively prosecuting individuals who perpetuate the brutal practice of dog fighting and to disrupting this illegal and inhumane industry.”
Johnson, who had a prior dog fighting conviction in 2004, is now facing a maximum of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of his six felony counts. His case is a stark warning to others involved in this cruel illegal activity.
