NFL reaches verdict on GM accused of harassing ex-wife
The Carolina Panthers have been making news for all the wrong reasons over the past few months.
First, team owner Jerry Richardson announced in December he was selling the team, after Sports Illustrated uncovered multiple sexual harassment claims against him.
Then, interim general manager Marty Hunley was suspended indefinitely after his ex-wife filed harassment charges against him.
Now, the Panthers have finally received some good news regarding one of those cases.
The NFL said Friday it has concluded its “thorough investigation” of Hurney, and Carolina has reinstated him to his previous job.
NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said the league explored all available resources, and cleared Hurney of any wrongdoing.
Jeanne Hurney filed the complaint on Feb. 2, but withdrew it four days later. Her refusal to cooperate with law enforcement officials helped her ex-husband’s case, according to the league.
“We also requested an interview with Mr. Hurney’s former wife, which was declined through her attorney,” McCarthy said. “Our investigation identified no evidence to support an allegation of domestic violence or similar conduct that would constitute a violation of the (league’s) personal conduct policy.”
The Hurneys started their divorce proceedings in 2013, with it being finalized in January 2014.
Marty Hurney’s attorney, Kathleen Lucchesi, said her client is thankful for the support he’s received.
“He is also grateful for the continued confidence and support of the Panthers organization,” Lucchesi said. “Marty is looking forward to getting back to the work of building a strong and successful Panthers team for the 2018 season.”
Hurney served as the team’s general manager from 2002-2012. He was named interim GM before training camp last season after the team abruptly fired David Gettleman, who has since been hired by the New York Giants.
Hurney is considered the front-runner to secure the permanent job in Carolina, with an announcement possibly coming as early as Monday.
On the #Panthers GM opening: Now that he was fully cleared, interim Marty Hurney is once again considered the favorite for the full-time job, I'm told. Not a surprise, that's where he was pre-leave. Should wrap up, too.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 16, 2018
Once that happens, the organization can focus on improving its team and making a deeper playoff run.
“It’s been a very long two weeks for Marty and his family,” Lucchesi said. “In this digital age, it’s nearly impossible to overcome suspicion, defend yourself and clear your name once the court of public opinion gets ahold of a false narrative. The public scrutiny can be devastating and unrelenting. In this case, it was also unnecessary.”
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