An investigation by The New York Times into former employee Dianna Russini, an ex-NFL insider, is reportedly still underway nearly three months after it was initiated, causing frustration among staff members at The Athletic, the Times' subsidiary where Russini was employed.
The inquiry began in early April following the publication of compromising photos depicting Russini and New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel at an adults-only resort. Russini resigned from her position just days after the images emerged.
A spokesperson for The Times Company confirmed to Pro Football Talk on Tuesday that the investigation "is still ongoing." This update comes weeks after reports indicated that staff unrest was growing due to the protracted nature of the probe.
Steven Ginsberg, Russini's former boss at The Athletic, initially defended her but later stated that additional information prompted an investigation. In June, Ginsberg informed staff that the investigation would take "a few more weeks" and that updates would be provided upon its conclusion. However, the deadline has since been extended.
Further controversy has surrounded Russini in recent weeks due to newly surfaced dashcam footage. In the seven-minute clip, Russini appears to use the name of former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll and reference Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy in an attempt to avoid a traffic ticket. The officer eventually issued a warning, citing her job requirements.
A New York Times exposé published last week detailed this incident and revealed Russini's $800,000 annual salary, making her one of the highest-paid journalists at the Times Company. The article also noted that contract renewal talks between The Athletic and Russini were underway when the scandal first broke.
Russini has denied allegations of an affair with Vrabel, stating in her resignation announcement that she stands by all her published stories. Vrabel also initially denied the affair but later announced he had begun counseling to improve himself as a husband, father, and coach.
The Times' exposé also highlighted that The Athletic's management was displeased with Russini's previous public disclosure on a podcast about using her relationship with an NFL head coach to evade a driving ticket. Russini had claimed on 'Stugotz and Company' that she avoided a ticket for texting while driving by having a head coach FaceTime the officer. However, the recent footage suggests she instead used O'Connell's name and messages. A Times Company spokeswoman called this conduct "unacceptable," and it was later revealed Russini had not sought nor received permission to appear on the podcast, as required.
Vrabel missed the third day of the NFL Draft due to seeking counseling. He has since focused on his coaching duties with the Patriots, stating his commitment to providing the team with his best efforts after the personal turmoil.