Sep 14, 2007, 0:46 GMT
New York, NY - New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has been fined the maximum of $500,000 by the league for the use of equipment to videotape an opposing team's offensive or defensive signals it was announced late Thursday night.
In addition, commissioner Roger Goodell also notified the Patriots that they would forfeit their own first-round draft choice in 2008 if they reach the playoffs, or their own second-round and third-round picks if they do not qualify for the playoffs. The club was also fined $250,000.
This stems from Sunday's 38-14 win over the New York Jets at the Meadowlands when an employee of the Patriots was caught filming the Jets' sideline and had the video equipment confiscated.
'This episode represents a calculated and deliberate attempt to avoid longstanding rules designed to encourage fair play and promote honest competition on the playing field,' commissioner Goodell wrote in a letter to the Patriots.
Goodell also considered suspending Belichick, but the NFL will closely review and monitor the Patriots' coaching video program, effective immediately.
'I specifically considered whether to impose a suspension on coach Belichick,' commissioner Goodell wrote. 'I have determined not to do so, largely because I believe that the discipline I am imposing of a maximum fine and forfeiture of a first-round draft choice, or multiple draft choices, is in fact more significant and long-lasting, and therefore more effective, than a suspension.'
NFL policy states that 'no video recording devices of any kind are permitted to be in use in the coaches' booth, on the field, or in the locker room during the game' and that all video shooting locations for club coaching purposes 'must be enclosed on all sides with a roof overhead.'
It was determined by Goodell that Patriots ownership was unaware of Belichick's action, but determined that penalties should be imposed on the club because 'Coach Belichick not only serves as the head coach but also has substantial control over all aspects of New England's football operations. His actions and decisions are properly attributed to the club.'
On Wednesday, Belichick released a statement addressing the situation.
'Earlier this week, I spoke with Commissioner [Roger] Goodell about a videotaping procedure during last Sunday's game and my interpretation of the rules. At this point, we have not been notified of the league's ruling. Although it remains a league matter, I want to apologize to everyone who has been affected, most of all ownership, staff and players. Following the league's decision, I will have further comment.'
It was also reported earlier this week that this wasn't the first time the Pats were caught doing this.
© 2007 The Sports Network
Your Talkback on this Story