The US businessman was involved in a sting.
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Jed York was caught up in a sting (Image: Columbiana County)
Leeds United and Rangers co-owner Jed York has been jailed in Ohio, USA, after being arrested for soliciting prostitution. The businessman, who is also the owner of the San Francisco 49ers, was convicted of disorderly conduct and possessing criminal tools.
He was released after posting a $5,000 (£3,666) bond, and court records state the case was brought by the East Palestine Police Department and filed at Columbiana County Municipal Court on Monday. He was originally charged with engaging in prostitution, but pleaded no contest to misdemeanour charges of disorderly conduct and possessing criminal tools, having been snared in a prostitution sting at a US trailer park.
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In the Ohio legal system, pleading no contest means a defendant accepts a conviction without formally admitting guilt. As such, York was sentenced to one day in jail on each offence, to be served concurrently, and was given credit for time already served. He was also fined $1,150 (£843).
Records suggest that York also had his mobile phone returned and a $160 (£117), which will be given to the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force as part of the plea agreement. York also took part and completed an online course.
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Columbiana County prosecutor Vito Abruzzino said the majority of these types of prostitution cases typically end in plea agreements. He said: "Each case is looked at individually and for specific facts of the conduct, what evidence the police provide, and input from the arresting officer.
"You also have to factor in [the] criminal history of the defendant, and whether or not they have committed these types of offences in the past, and importantly, what the judges will allow."
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Jed York is the main owner of NFL team San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers said in a statement: "As this is a legal matter, which has been resolved, we will not be providing any further comment at this time." The NFL also released a statement saying they were aware of the arrest and would review it under the personal conduct policy.
York took over the day-to-day control of the NFL franchise in 2008, and became the team’s principal owner in 2024. He was also responsible for overseeing the building of Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, which has since held two Super Bowls and hosted matches at the 2026 World Cup. He also owns stakes in Leeds and Scotland’s Rangers through 49ers Enterprises.