Eric D. Johnson, a former NFL player, was among eight defendants that have been indicted this month due to human trafficking and gang-related activity.
The 46-year-old Johnson and seven other alleged members of the “LOTTO” gang were charged with various crimes, including trafficking of persons for sexual servitude and violation of the street gang terrorism and prevention act. They also received charges of conspiracy to violate the racketeer influenced and corrupt organizations act (RICO), aggravated assault, and kidnapping. All of these charges were confirmed by Attorney General Chris Carr in a statement that was released on Feb. 16.
According to prosecutors, Johnson held a leadership role in the group, which engaged in the human trafficking. The victims of this trafficking included four women and one underage girl.
Of those indicted, all six men and two women are accused of using the profits to fund the gang’s operations and purchase weapons and other assets.
Johnson spent the majority of his professional football career playing for the Raiders, playing in 55 games with the team since 2000. He later played for the Atlanta Falcons and the Arizona Cardinals.
It is currently unknown if Johnson has entered a plea to the charges or retained an attorney to represent him.
A crackdown on gangs and human trafficking has been ongoing in Georgia, with authorities using all available resources to ensure that those who engage in illegal activities are pursued and held accountable for their actions.