In a move highlighting the ongoing fight against sexual misconduct and the importance of transparency within powerful institutions, the Los Angeles Ethics Commission has approved a $15,000 settlement with Les Moonves, the former president and CEO of CBS. Moonves was implicated in obstructing a sexual assault investigation through his attempts to influence a retired LAPD captain.
A Settlement Reached: Moonves Admits Wrongdoing
The settlement, finalized on Wednesday, represents the maximum penalty Moonves could face through the administrative enforcement process. While this might seem like a relatively small fine for a high-profile figure, it signifies a crucial step in holding powerful individuals accountable for their actions.
The agreement comes after a period of back-and-forth negotiations. The Commission initially rejected a proposed $11,250 settlement in February 2024, citing the “egregiousness of the alleged facts.” This decision underlined the Commission’s commitment to sending a strong message regarding such offenses.
The settlement acknowledges Moonves’ actions:
Aiding and abetting the disclosure and misuse of confidential information.
Inducing a city official (the LAPD Captain) to misuse his position.
These actions were undertaken in an attempt to gain an unfair advantage by derailing a sexual assault investigation initiated against Moonves by Phyllis Golden-Gottlieb, a former television executive.
A Scheme to Silence: Moonves and the LAPD Captain
The investigation centered around Moonves’ attempts to influence then-LAPD Captain Cory Palka. Through an intermediary, Moonves sought confidential information regarding the sexual assault investigation involving Golden-Gottlieb. This included communications discussing ways to “kill media” coverage and manipulate the investigation’s direction.
Palka, who had previously served as Moonves’ security detail, expressed unwavering loyalty to the former CBS chief even after the allegations came to light. This highlights a concerning pattern of power dynamics that can hinder fair investigations in the face of influential figures.
Fallout and Ongoing Investigations
Moonves’ attempts to obstruct the investigation ultimately proved futile. He resigned from CBS in 2018, and the allegations against him resurfaced in 2022 through a separate settlement between the New York Attorney General and Paramount Global (formerly CBS Corporation). That settlement amounted to $30.5 million and revealed additional wrongdoing within the company, including insider trading related to the sexual assault claims.
The Ethics Commission has yet to determine a final penalty for Ian Metrose, the former CBS executive who served as the intermediary between Moonves and Palka. During the initial settlement rejection in February, a proposed $2,500 fine for Metrose was also deemed insufficient.
While Moonves’ legal representation hasn’t publicly commented on the settlement, the case signifies a turning point in holding powerful individuals accountable for obstructing investigations and misusing their influence.
The Settlement Details: What Led to the Fine?
The approved settlement underscores the severity of Moonves’ actions, acknowledging his violation of city laws by aiding and abetting the misuse of confidential information and inducing a city official to misuse his position for personal advantage. Moonves cooperated with the investigation, leading to this settlement, which is the maximum penalty for such an offense.
Evaluating Moonves’ Role: Interference in a Sexual Assault Probe
The controversy stems from Moonves’ attempts to sway ex-LAPD Captain Cory Palka into sharing confidential details about a sexual assault investigation initiated by Phyllis Golden-Gottlieb, a late TV executive. Moonves’ involvement raised ethical concerns as he sought insider information on allegations against him.
Repercussions of the Settlement: Moonves’ Resignation from CBS
In 2018, Moonves resigned from his position at CBS amidst the unfolding scandal. The settlement sheds light on the extent of Moonves’ actions and the repercussions within the entertainment industry.
Key Takeaways from the Settlement: Lessons Learned
The settlement highlights the importance of upholding ethical standards and the consequences of breaching confidentiality protocols in sensitive investigations. It serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibilities of public figures and the need for transparency in legal proceedings.
