Cleveland Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam are facing a lawsuit over the team’s relocation from Huntington Bank Field to Brook Park. The suit alleges that the Haslams failed to give Cleveland the clear chance to buy the team, violating the state’s Modell Law.
The complaint, filed Thursday, claims that the Haslams “bilked” the city and its taxpayers for millions only to abandon it. Mayor Justin Bibb hinted at the law in October, stating that he was willing to acquiesce to the Haslam’s decision to build a mega-stadium complex on 120 acres of land.
Law Director Mark Griffin described the Haslams’ actions as “circumvention of these requirements not only undermines the trust of Cleveland’s residents, but also violates a law designed to protect all Ohioans.” The case highlights the ongoing stadium saga and the city’s efforts to hold the team accountable.
Source: https://www.clevescene.com/news/cleveland-officially-sues-browns-over-modell-law-45868232