When it comes to the practical consequences of controversy over the NFL, the league always has its eye on the legislature. The NFL should have the other eye on the judiciary. Prosecutors have broad powers and exceptional discretion. Many of the issues that are attracting the attention of Congress could also be the focus of the Department of Justice. Currently, the league has caught the attention of law enforcement officers in many states. According to the New York Times, six attorneys general have informed the league that they have “serious concerns” about allegations of harassment of women and minorities in the workplace. The NFL has been warned that if the league does not take action to address the problem, a wide-ranging investigation could be launched. The matter was referred to Commissioner Roger Goodell in a letter sent on Tuesday. New York Attorney General Letitia James is one of six to sign the letter. (The other five were not named in the article.) The NFL has faced a number of workplace controversies in recent months, from the status of Governors to Jon Gruden’s emails, the Brian Flores trial to the Cowboys’ voyeur scandal, and more. The Browns have recently become a hotbed of criticism after exchanging with General Deshaun Watson for a five-year, $ 230 million full-time contract, despite being charged in 22 pending civil cases alleging sexual misconduct during sex. . The letter clarifies concerns raised by the Times in February, including allegations that female staff members should watch the video of the Ray Rice lift, that they should state publicly whether they have been victims of domestic violence, and that they have been marginalized or pushed out. if they challenged the league’s handling of sexual harassment issues. This represents a new area of concern for the league, in addition to the involvement of Congress or the possible filing of lawsuits, which the association is systematically trying to force into private arbitration. If these attorneys go ahead, the NFL’s conduct will be monitored and made public – and possibly prosecuted. If this threat / promise does not trigger more than 345 Park Avenue service, nothing will.
