NFL Suspends 49ers Owner Jed York for Six Games Following Prostitution Arrest

The National Football League has suspended San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York for six games and fined him $500,000 for violating the league's personal conduct policy. The suspension stems from his arrest earlier this summer in East Palestine, Ohio, on accusations of attempting to solicit a prostitute.

York's absence will count toward the first three games of the season, making him eligible to return on October 20, the NFL announced Friday.

"Today, the NFL concluded its review, and I accept its decision in full," York stated Friday. "To my family, to the players, coaches, and employees of the San Francisco 49ers, to our fans and partners, I am deeply sorry. This was an inexcusable mistake and I take full responsibility.

"What I did does not reflect my values or the man I strive to be for my family. While I fell short of the model I want to set for my sons, I now hope to show them the importance of owning up to one’s failures, and that even our worst moments teach us to be better. Leading the 49ers is a privilege, and one I don’t take lightly. Your trust will have to be earned back over time, and I look forward to that work ahead."

The NFL initiated its investigation into York following his arrest on August 23. Authorities allege that York responded to an undercover prostitution advertisement and agreed to pay $160 for sexual services. He was apprehended in his rental car at a trailer park after arriving to meet the individual. Body camera footage from the scene showed York appearing surprised by the police stop.

York was initially charged with one count of engaging in prostitution and one count of possessing criminal tools. On August 24, he entered a plea of no contest to a lesser charge of disorderly conduct, along with the possession of criminal tools charge, as part of a deal with prosecutors. He received a one-day jail sentence, which was credited as time served, and was ordered to pay over $1,000 in fines.