Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson is the subject of an internal investigation over alleged workplace misconduct, the team announced Friday night. Time Sports
The workplace misconduct allegations that prompted an investigation into Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson include claims of sexual harassment and the alleged use of a racial slur toward an African-American scout, according to a Sports Illustrated report published Sunday.
Sports Illustrated reported that at least four former Panthers employees have received monetary settlements from Richardson over the years, along with non-disclosure agreements prohibiting them from publicly discussing the allegations.
The Panthers announced Friday that they had opened an investigation into Richardson's conduct. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy confirmed to USA TODAY Sports on Sunday that the league has since taken control of the investigation.
According to Sports Illustrated, Richardson invited female employees to lunch and offer to fasten their seatbelts for them, reaching across their laps or grazing their breasts in the process. On Fridays, when employees were permitted to wear jeans, he would ask female employees to turn around so he could see their backsides, according to Sports Illustrated.
The magazine also reported allegations that Richardson "had a special interest in female grooming," paying for female employees to get manicures or asking them if he could personally shave their legs, among other claims.
Richardson also allegedly used a racial slur when speaking to an African-American scout who has since left the team, according to the Sports Illustrated report.
Contact Tom Schad at tschad@usatoday.com or on Twitter @Tom_Schad.
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