McCourt Accused of Stealing: MLB Commissioner Looking To Kick Dodger's Owner Out
Frank McCourt, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ owner, is accused of taking $190 million from his team and using it for non-baseball related activity.
The Delaware bankruptcy court documents filed against McCourt on Monday, according to USA Today, stated the Dodgers owner was in violation of Major League Baseball rules. The documents also claim McCourt misappropriation the team's funds.
Bud Selig, MLB Commissioner, said he wants McCourt out of the league for breaking multiple rules. According to USA Today, McCourt allegedly used $63 million to pay off personal debts and took $55 million for undisclosed personal use.
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"The Dodgers are in bankruptcy because McCourt has taken almost $190 million out of the club and has completely alienated the Dodgers' fan base," a statement released from the league said.
Another key factor that will be discussed in the Dodgers’ bankruptcy case will concern Bryan Stow, a San Francisco Giants fan who was assaulted on opening night in the Dodger Stadium parking lot. A question about the security measures used to protect Stow and other fans has been the topic of debate between the MLB and the Dodgers.
The Los Angeles Times reported that the Dodgers’ filings spoke about Selig making inaccurate public assumptions concerning the security in the stadium.
"He set about fabricating the public misimpression that security at Dodger Stadium was somehow inadequate," the Dodgers' filing stated. "This is, by far, the most unforgivable action taken by the commissioner during this entire saga, and has caused enormous and irreparable harm to the Dodgers, Mr. McCourt and the game of baseball."
However, the MLB maintained the commissioner’s stance that McCourt could have done a better job with security.
“McCourt, however, omits the fact that he removed uniformed officers before the 2011 season, including the opening game when Stow was so seriously injured," MLB wrote in its official court filing on Monday.
Both sides will face one another in an official court hearing scheduled next week.
