Leeds United and Rangers co-owner Jed York has received a one-day jail sentence in Ohio after a case stemming from an undercover prostitution investigation.
The 45-year-old, who also owns the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers, was convicted of disorderly conduct and possessing criminal tools after entering no contest pleas to both charges at Columbiana County Municipal Court.
Under Ohio law, a no contest plea allows a defendant to accept a conviction without formally admitting guilt.
York was sentenced to one day in jail for each offence, with the terms running at the same time. He was credited for time already served, meaning no additional jail time was required. He was also ordered to pay fines of $150 for disorderly conduct and $1,000 for possessing criminal tools.
Court records show the case was brought by the East Palestine Police Department and filed on Monday. York was found guilty during his arraignment after submitting the two no contest pleas.
An application to have the case records sealed or destroyed was also submitted and rejected on the same day.
US media reports citing further court documents say the case originated from an advertisement placed on a prostitution website by undercover officers working with an Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force.
York allegedly responded to the advertisement and arranged to pay $140, equivalent to around £103, for sexual activity. As part of a plea agreement, the initial charge was reduced to disorderly conduct and possession of criminal tools. The latter offence is understood to relate to the mobile phone used to respond to the online advertisement.
York has interests in both Rangers and Leeds through 49ers Enterprises, the investment arm connected to the San Francisco 49ers, where he serves as chief executive and principal owner.
The US investment group was part of the consortium that took control of Rangers in 2025. A group led by businessman Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises acquired a controlling 51% stake in the Scottish Premiership club in May that year.
Cavenagh became Rangers chairman, while 49ers Enterprises assumed a significant role in the club’s ownership structure. York is not involved in Rangers’ daily operations.
The investment group also has a long-standing connection with Leeds United. It first bought into the Yorkshire club in 2018 while Leeds were competing in the Championship and increased its stake over several years before taking full control in 2023.
Both Rangers and Leeds declined to comment on York’s case.
The San Francisco 49ers also said the legal proceedings had been concluded and indicated they would not issue further comment.
York’s position as an NFL owner means the matter may still face scrutiny from the league. The NFL has confirmed it is aware of the case and intends to review it under its personal conduct policy.