Panthers, owner Jerry Richardson reached settlements with four ex-employees for workplace misconduct, per report

The workplace misconduct allegations that prompted an investigation into Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson include claims of sexual harassment and the alleged use of a racial slur toward an African-American scout, according to a Sports Illustrated report published Sunday.

Sports Illustrated reported that at least four former Panthers employees have received monetary settlements from Richardson over the years, along with non-disclosure agreements prohibiting them from publicly discussing the allegations.

The Panthers announced Friday that they had opened an investigation into Richardson's conduct. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy confirmed to USA TODAY Sports on Sunday that the league has since taken control of the investigation.

According to Sports Illustrated, Richardson invited female employees to lunch and offer to fasten their seatbelts for them, reaching across their laps or grazing their breasts in the process. On Fridays, when employees were permitted to wear jeans, he would ask female employees to turn around so he could see their backsides, according to Sports Illustrated.

The magazine also reported allegations that Richardson "had a special interest in female grooming," paying for female employees to get manicures or asking them if he could personally shave their legs, among other claims.

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Richardson also allegedly used a racial slur when speaking to an African-American scout who has since left the team, according to the Sports Illustrated report.

Following Sunday's 31-24 victory over the Packers, Panthers coach Ron Rivera addressed the situation by remembering various acts of support by Richardson toward him.

“A lot of you know I had a house fire and he was there for Stephanie and I, he was tremendous in supporting us,” Rivera told reports. “My brother passed and Mr. Richardson was there and helped me get to the funeral and back. … I don’t know what’s been written or what’s been said. All I know is what Mr. Richardson has been for me and that’s been very supportive.”

Contact Tom Schad at tschad@usatoday.com or on Twitter @Tom_Schad.

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