League discipline and return timeline
The NFL suspended San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York for six games on Friday and fined him $500,000 for violating the league's personal conduct policy. The punishment follows his arrest earlier this year in a prostitution sting in Ohio. York has not attended any games or league meetings this season, and the league credited him with three games already served. He becomes eligible to return on 20 October, after the team played Washington the previous night. The NFL's fall league meetings begin that same day in New York.[S1]
York's apology and acceptance
In a statement released by the team, York said he accepts the league's punishment and apologized for his actions. He expressed deep regret to his family, the players, coaches and employees of the San Francisco 49ers, and to fans and partners. He called the incident an inexcusable mistake and took full responsibility, saying it did not reflect his values or the man he wants to be for his family. He acknowledged falling short of the example he wants to set for his sons and said he hopes to show them the importance of owning up to failures. He added that leading the 49ers is a privilege he does not take lightly and that trust will have to be earned back over time.[S1]
Arrest, charges and sentence
In August, the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force arrested York in a mobile home park after police said he tried to pay $160 for sex with a woman he believed to be a prostitute. He was booked into jail and released after posting a $5,000 bond. Prosecutors initially charged him with engaging in prostitution but amended the charge to disorderly conduct. York pleaded no contest to that charge and to possessing criminal tools for using his phone to respond to an undercover online prostitution advertisement. He was sentenced to one day in jail for both offenses, to be served concurrently, and received credit for one day already served when he entered the plea. He was also fined $1,150. Police seized the $160, which was later given to the human trafficking task force as part of the plea. York also completed an online course.[S1]
Business interests beyond the 49ers
York also holds stakes in the Premier League's Leeds United and Scotland's Rangers through 49ers Enterprises.[S1]
