Former NFL player Eric Johnson has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for his involvement in trafficking and exploitation, linked to a notorious gang called Loto.
Johnson, known for his role as a defensive back and part of the team in the 2003 Super Bowl, was convicted alongside eight others connected to the gang.
Georgia Attorney General Chris Kerr commented, “This is a criminal network that profits by trafficking children. We’ve worked to bring all parties to justice — dismantling gang leaders and the entire Lotto operation.”
“We are committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community in Georgia and will continue our efforts until every predator is held accountable,” he added.
At 49, Johnson played for the Oakland Raiders, Atlanta Falcons, and Arizona Cardinals, ending his career in 2005.
He, along with his co-defendants, faced charges stemming from a detailed investigation that exposed their violent tactics, including coercing women and using them to fund criminal activities.
Johnson ultimately pleaded guilty to charges related to gang activity, assault, and exploitation. He is to serve the first 10 years in prison, with the remainder of his sentence set on strict probation.
A Nebraska alumnus, Johnson spent four seasons with the Raiders from 2000 to 2003. He is particularly remembered for his crucial blocked punt in the Super Bowl XXXVII, despite the team’s loss.
In later years, he had a stint with the Atlanta Falcons in 2004 before wrapping up his NFL journey with the Arizona Cardinals in 2005.
