49ers owner faces the music with multi-game suspension after prostitution charges

San Francisco, California - San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York has been handed a six-game suspension and fined $500,000 following his arrest on vice charges, the NFL said on Friday.

San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York has been handed a six-game suspension and a hefty fine following his arrest on vice charges.   © Collage: HANDOUT / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP | THEARON W. HENDERSON / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

York was detained by police in East Palestine, Ohio, in August on a charge of "engaging in prostitution".

Numerous media reports said York was arrested after responding to an advert on a "known prostitution website" on August 23 to arrange sexual activity at a mobile home park.

York's charges were subsequently amended to misdemeanor disorderly conduct and possessing criminal tools.

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York pleaded no contest to the two charges and was fined $1,150.

York's offenses, however, left him in violation of the NFL's personal conduct policy, leading to his fine and suspension.

The NFL said Friday that York had already effectively served half of his suspension after staying away from the 49ers' first three regular season games.

"Those three missed games are counted toward his suspension, and he may return on Tuesday, October 20," the league confirmed in announcing his sanction.

York (46) said in a statement he took "full responsibility" for his actions.

"To my family, to the players, coaches, and employees of the San Francisco 49ers, to our fans and partners, I am deeply sorry," York said.

"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.

"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."

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York is the principal owner and chief executive of the 49ers and is also a co-owner of English Premier League side Leeds United and Scottish giants Rangers.