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Cleveland Browns fined for texting scandal

By Aileen Graef
The Cleveland Browns have been fined for violating the electronic device policy of the NFL. UPI/Kevin Dietsch
The Cleveland Browns have been fined for violating the electronic device policy of the NFL. UPI/Kevin Dietsch | License Photo

CLEVELAND, March 30 (UPI) -- The Cleveland Browns have been fined $250,000 and general manager Ray Farmer has been suspended by the NFL for violating the league's electronic device policy.

Farmer was found guilty of texting plays from the sidelines and will now sit out the first four games of the regular season for 2015.

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"I respect the league's decision and understand that there are consequences for my actions," Farmer said in a statement. "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 apologize to Jimmy Haslam, Mike Pettine, our entire organization and our fans for the ramifications. Learning is a big part of who I am and I will certainly be better from this situation."

The decision came after Farmer admitted he texted the team about plays on the field during the game.

Cleveland was not the only team meted out punishment. the Atlanta Falcons were also fined and lost a draft pick for pumping noise into the stadium while opposing teams huddled.

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