Former NFL running back convicted on 6 felony counts in record-breaking dog fighting operation

Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel discusses what's next for Deion Sanders after his cancer treatment.

A former NFL running back was convicted on six felony counts for operating a large-scale dog-fighting trafficking venture following a multi-day trial in Oklahoma. 

The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Public Affairs announced the conviction of Leshon Johnson, 54, who was convicted of violating the federal Animal Welfare Act’s prohibitions against possessing, selling, transporting, and delivering animals to be used in fighting ventures.

The announcement stated that Johnson, who played five seasons in the NFL with three different teams, surrendered to the government the "190 dogs seized in this case."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Running back Leshon Johnson of the Arizona Cardinals runs with the ball during a 31-21 loss to the New York Jets at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona. (Stephen Dunn/ALLSPORT)

"This criminal profited off of the misery of innocent animals and he will face severe consequences for his vile crimes," Attorney General Pamela Bondi said in a statement. "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."

FBI Director Kash Patel added: "The FBI will not stand for those who perpetuate the despicable crime of dogfighting. Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, those who continue to engage in organized animal fighting and cruelty will face justice."

FORMER NFL STAR ADRIAN PETERSON INVOLVED IN PHYSICAL ALTERCATION DURING POKER GAME, VIDEO SHOWS

The conviction came from an unsealed indictment