Ex‑NFL Star Eric Johnson Sentenced to 20 Years for Human Trafficking & Pimping with Crips‑Affiliated Gang

Former NFL cornerback Eric Johnson, aged 49, has been sentenced to 20 years behind bars after pleading guilty to charges connected to a human trafficking operation run by the LOTTO gang, which has affiliations with the Crips and Gangster Disciples. 

The Case & Charges

• The investigation named nine defendants in total, all tied to the LOTTO gang (short for “Last One To Take Over”), indicted in 2023 after a shooting spurred further scrutiny.  
• Johnson pleaded guilty to serious offenses including:
  
  • Gang activity
  • Racketeering
  • Pimping and human trafficking  
• Prosecutors state the gang trafficked women and a child, forcing them into prostitution to generate revenue for the criminal enterprise and fund weapon purchases.  

Sentence Details & NFL Background

• His 20‑year sentence is structured as 10 years in prison, followed by 10 years of strict probation.  
• Johnson had a six‑year NFL career (2000–2005), playing for the Oakland Raiders, Atlanta Falcons, and Arizona Cardinals. One of his memorable moments: returning a blocked punt for a touchdown in Super Bowl XXXVII.  

Statements & Public Reaction

• Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr called this a victory for justice: “This is a criminal network that trafficked a child … we went after all those involved — taking down the gang’s leaders, associates, and the entire LOTTO operation.”  
• Local media reported that Johnson played a role in coordinating movement of the trafficked women and contributing funds (money and weapons) to support the gang’s operations.  

Why This Matters & What’s Next

This case underscores the extreme consequences for public figures who cross into serious organized crime. The conviction and sentencing send a message about accountability, especially in human trafficking and gang involvement.

What to watch next:

• Any appeals or legal motions Johnson’s team may file
• How prosecutors build further cases against remaining defendants
• Public response from the NFL community and fanbase
• Stronger efforts by law enforcement to target criminal networks exploiting vulnerable people

Dee