Browns GM Farmer suspended four games for texting scandal

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Cleveland Browns general manager Ray Farmer has been suspended four games for his role in the team's texting scandal, the NFL announced on Monday.

A statement from the NFL's executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent read: "The use of a cell phone on multiple occasions during games in 2014 by Cleveland Browns general manager Ray Farmer was a violation of NFL rules that prohibit certain uses of electronic devices during games. 

"Based on these violations, the Browns have been fined $250,000 and Ray Farmer will be suspended without pay for the first four regular-season games of the 2015 season. The suspension will start on midnight of the Sunday preceding the Browns' first regular-season game and will end immediately after the Browns' fourth regular-season game. 

"During the period of the suspension, Farmer cannot be involved in any club matters and is prohibited from being at the Browns' offices, practice facility, or at Browns games.

"There was no evidence in the NFL's review that Browns ownership or any other team executives had knowledge of the prohibited conduct. Once the violation was discovered, Browns management implemented new processes to ensure future compliance.

"We appreciate the courtesy and co-operation the Browns organisation extended during our inquiry."

Farmer conceded at the NFL Scouting Combine that he texted team personnel on the sideline from the press box last season, saying that he took "full responsibility" for his actions.

And he reiterated his apology in a statement released by the team.

"I respect the league's decision and understand that there are consequences for my actions, " it read.

"Accountability is integral to what we are trying to build and as a leader I need to set the right example. I made a mistake and apologise to [owner] Jimmy Haslam, [head coach] Mike Pettine, our entire organisation and our fans for the ramifications.

"Learning is a big part of who I am and I will certainly be better from this situation."

Haslam added: "We accept the league's ruling. Ray made a mistake and takes full responsibility for his role in violating the policy. It is critical that we make better decisions. 

"Ray has tremendous integrity and I know has great remorse for what occurred. We are all committed to learning from this and making the Browns a stronger and better organisation."

 

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Jordan Heck is a social media producer at Sporting News