In the wake of Wednesday’s bombshell New York Times story, Redskins president Bruce Allen said Thursday the team is “immediately looking into” allegations raised over a 2013 trip to Costa Rica involving its cheerleaders.
The New York Times reported male sponsors and suite holders were allowed to attend a topless photo shoot and nine women were later required to be personal escorts for some of the men at a nightclub, where team officials were also present.
“The Redskins organization is very concerned by the allegations involving our cheerleaders in the recent New York Times article,” Allen said in a statement. “We are immediately looking into this situation and want to express how serious we take these allegations. Based on the dialogue we’ve had with a number of current and former cheerleaders over the past 48 hours, we’ve heard very different first-hand accounts that directly contradict many of the details of the May 2 article. I can promise that once we have completed looking into this matter, if it is revealed that any of our employees acted inappropriately, those employees will face significant repercussions.
“Our entire organization has great appreciation and respect for our cheerleaders. From the work they do in the local community, to visiting our troops abroad, and for always representing the Redskins organization in a first-class manner, these women are exemplary members of our organization and are worthy of our utmost respect. We are proud of these women and support them during this time. We will continue to take all necessary measures to create a safe and respectful work environment.”
The Redskins have received intense backlash from the story, and the piece received attention on shows like “Today” and “Good Morning America.”
The NFL has not commented on whether the league will also look into the matter.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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