49ers Owner Jed York Pleads No Contest in Ohio Misdemeanor Case

San Francisco 49ers principal owner Jed York pleaded no contest on Monday, Aug. 24, 2026, to misdemeanor charges of disorderly conduct and possessing criminal tools following an arrest during a prostitution sting in East Palestine, Ohio, on Aug. 23.

Court records show that law enforcement officers initially arrested the 46-year-old executive on a charge of engaging in prostitution before prosecutors amended the charges. Officials credited York with one day served, ordered him to pay $1,150 in fines, and required him to complete an online course. Additionally, York forfeited $160 seized during his arrest to the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force, while his mobile phone was returned after his request to expunge the record.

The arrest occurred during an ongoing anti-human trafficking operation conducted by regional authorities in Columbiana County. East Palestine Mayor Trent Conaway noted that local law enforcement regularly collaborates with county task forces to curb illegal solicitation across the state.

"We haven’t had this much excitement around here since the train derailed," said Trent Conaway, Mayor of East Palestine.

Conaway explained that law enforcement officers prioritize targeted operations against individuals attempting to purchase sex within the municipality.

"It just so happens, we got Mr. York," said Conaway.

The mayor emphasized that regional enforcement measures apply uniformly regardless of an individual's public status or financial standing.

"We’re very proud of the work that he’s done. We’ve got quite a few people off the streets," said Conaway.

Conaway added that individuals detained for sex work receive referrals to local support services while operations focus heavily on buyers.

"We get people from all walks of life. It’s a shame when anybody feels a need to do this. It doesn’t matter whether they’re a NFL owner or a handyman down the street," said Conaway.

He reiterated that municipal authorities remain committed to supporting broader law enforcement initiatives aimed at eliminating human trafficking statewide.

"We’re trying to curb this. It’s part of a broader scope of the human trafficking (enforcement). Human trafficking is a real problem.

It’s an ever-growing problem in the United States. We’re just trying to do our best to curb that," said Conaway.

Following the court proceedings, National Football League representatives confirmed that the league had initiated a formal personal conduct policy review regarding the matter.

"We are aware of the matter which will be reviewed under the personal conduct policy," said Brian McCarthy, NFL spokesperson.

The San Francisco 49ers organization released a brief public statement addressing the resolution of the judicial proceedings in Ohio.

"As this is a legal matter, which has been resolved, we will not be providing any further comment at this time," said the San Francisco 49ers organization.

Court documents separately revealed that York filed for divorce from his wife of 15 years, Danielle, on May 11 in Santa Clara County Superior Court, citing irreconcilable differences. York has served as the franchise's chief executive officer since 2008 and assumed principal ownership in 2024, overseeing three Super Bowl appearances and the construction of Levi's Stadium during his tenure.