NFL fines Washington Football Team $10 million after sexual misconduct probe

The Washington Football Team has been fined $10 million by the NFL after an investigation was conducted into the allegations of rampant sexual misconduct within the organisation, the league announced. 

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During the investigation conducted by independent counsel Beth Wilkinson, more than 150 people, current and former employees of the Washington Football team, were interviewed. The interviewees received anonymity in exchange for their testimony, NFL added. Washington owner Daniel Snyder also was interviewed. The investigation was done over a year before Wilkinson’s review concluded that for many years the workplace environment at the Washington Football Team, both generally and particularly for women, was highly unprofessional, the league stated. 

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 “Bullying and intimidation frequently took place and many described the culture as one of fear, and numerous female employees reported having experienced sexual harassment and a general lack of respect in the workplace.”

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell thanked Wilkinson and her team for conducting a thorough and independent review and providing both the club and me with a series of thoughtful recommendations based on findings.

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“I want to thank the current and former employees who spoke to Beth and her team; they provided vital information that will help ensure that the workplace environment at the club continues to improve. It is incredibly difficult to relive painful memories. I am grateful to everyone who courageously came forward,” Goodell said. 

The owner and co-CEO of the Washington Football Team Daniel Snyder issued a statement saying that he feels great remorse for people who had difficulty and traumatic experiences while working at the franchise.

The $10 million will be donated to organizations committed to character education, anti-bullying, healthy relationships and related topics as well as programs directed more broadly at improving the workplace, particularly for women and other underrepresented groups, NFL said.

Last year, the team’s cheerleaders alleged they were required to pose topless during a calendar shoot in Costa Rica, while some members said they were required to escort male sponsors during a trip to a nightclub, AFP reported.