Florida fans of the Carolina Panthers may be aware that the team’s owner, 81-year-old Jerry Richardson, faces multiple accusations of sexual harassment, according to an article that appeared in Sports Illustrated. Richardson has reached past settlements on these charges as well as for a racial slur he used with an African-American employee.
Among the accusations leveled at Richardson are that he asked women in the organization how they got their jeans on and if he could shave their legs. Women also reported what they called the “seat belt maneuver” in which they alleged he would touch them inappropriately while pretending to adjust a seat belt. There were also reports that women employees were asked to go to his suite and, once there, to give him a foot massage. Furthermore, he allegedly gave employees back rubs that involved inappropriate touching.
Richardson has chosen to sell the team rather than fight the charges. Houston Texans owner Bob McNair has spoken up in Richardson’s defense. According to McNair, his past settlements are no admission of guilt because people may settle to save money on lawsuits. McNair says he believes Richardson is innocent of the allegations.
People who feel they may be facing sexual harassment in the workplace may want to seek Boca Raton, Florida sexual harassment legal assistance. An attorney may be able to advise a person as to how to document and report the harassment. Unfortunately, although many companies have policies about sexual harassment, they do not always investigate or address it effectively. People may also fear retaliation if they come forward. If this happens, or if the company does not deal with the complaint effectively, a victim might want to file a lawsuit against the company.
Source: Boston CBS, “Texans Owner Bob McNair Defends Jerry Richardson Despite Sexual Harassment Allegations“, Michael Hurley, March 26, 2018
