San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York was arrested over the weekend in East Palestine, Ohio, on charges of disorderly conduct and possessing criminal tools, court documents show.
York, who was arrested by village police, pleaded no contest and paid fines totaling $1,150 as well as $135 in court fees, according to documents filed Monday in Columbiana County Court. York also paid $50 to request expungement, though both charges were misdemeanors.
Court records show prosecutors initially charged John Edward York, known as Jed, with engaging in prostitution, but later amended that charge to disorderly conduct.
Documents noted that $160 seized from York would be forfeited to the Miami Valley Human Trafficking Task Force, while his cellphone would be returned to him. York’s arraignment was held at 8:30 a.m. Monday, after which he paid his fees.
Messages to York and the 49ers seeking comment were not immediately returned. A Columbiana County Sheriff’s spokesperson declined to give further information on the case.
York, 46, has been part of the 49ers’ hierarchy for over 20 years and he assumed the title of “principal owner” two years ago to assure his family’s continued control.
His parents, Denise DeBartolo York and Dr. John York, became the 49ers’ primary owners in 2000 as her brother, Eddie DeBartolo, ceded his controlling shares in the wake of a Louisiana gambling scandal, pleading guilty to a felony. Their father, Edward J. DeBartolo, bought the 49ers in 1977 from the Morabito family, which founded the franchise in 1946.
Eddie DeBartolo’s ownership reign coincided with the 49ers’ rise to prominence and their five Super Bowl wins between the 1981 and ’94 seasons, earning him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame a decade ago. However, a Louisiana gambling scandal led to his ouster from the 49ers and the NFL, and although he pleaded guilty to a felony charge of failing to report an extortion attempt, he was pardoned in 2020 by President Trump.
Jed York is the oldest of four siblings. Twin sisters Jenna and Mara lead the 49ers Foundation charity wing. Younger brother Tony passed away in 2018 at age 35. Jed York and his wife, Danielle, have two sons, Jaxon and Brixton.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.