Jed York, a prominent American businessman and co-owner of English football club Leeds United and Scottish club Rangers FC, has been sentenced to jail time in Ohio on charges related to solicitation. York also holds an ownership stake in the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers.
The 45-year-old was convicted on two counts: solicitation and possessing criminal tools, following charges brought by American authorities. York entered a “no contest” plea, meaning he did not dispute the charges. Under Ohio legal practice, a “no contest” plea is considered an acceptance of punishment without formally admitting guilt.
For each of the offenses, the co-owner of Leeds United and Rangers was sentenced to one day in jail. Further execution of the sentence is expected to be phased according to directives from the authorities. Additionally, York received fines: $150 for the solicitation charge and $1,000 for the charge of possessing criminal tools. The 45-year-old did not contest either of the accusations after the hearing found him guilty.
The Ohio court is preparing to transfer York’s case file to the East Palestine Police Department and the Columbiana Municipal Court in the coming week for further proceedings. According to reports from American media, court documents indicate that York was implicated in advertising on a website designed for prostitution. This website was part of a sting operation set up by undercover officers from an Ohio human trafficking task force. Reports further detail that York allegedly arranged sexual activity with a woman in exchange for $140.
