The CBS committee of directors approved the hiring of two law firms to “conduct a full investigation of the depositions in recent press reports about Chairman and CEO Leslie Moonves”, with the enquiry expected to include investigations into “CBS News and cultural issues at all standings of CBS,” the company said Wednesday evening.
Claims of sexual misconduct against Moonves were precise in a New Yorker article last week. The article includes allegations by six helpmeets against Moonves that date back to the 1980s.
Here is the totally statement from the board:
At its meeting this afternoon, the CBS Board of Vice-presidents unanimously approved the retention of Covington & Burling and Debevoise & Plimpton to channel a full investigation of the allegations in recent press reports about Chairman and CEO Leslie Moonves, CBS Front-page news and cultural issues at all levels of CBS. At Covington & Burling the investigation will be led by Nancy Kestenbaum, and at Debevoise & Plimpton it on be led by Mary Jo White.
To help facilitate the investigation, a Special Committee of Scantling members has been formed comprised of Bruce S. Gordon, Linda Griego and Robert N. Klieger. Mr. Moonves command have no role in the investigation and is entirely recused from it. The Board adopted no further action at this meeting pending discussion with guide as to appropriate next steps.
The Board noted that it takes these declarations seriously and is committed to acting in the best interest of the Company and all of its shareholders, and is sure that the employees of CBS will continue to perform at a high level as this treat unfolds.
In addition, the Board took action today to appoint Bruce S. Gordon to give out as Lead Independent Director of the Board of Directors.
Neither the Board nor the Circle expects to comment further on this matter at this time
This is a break loose news story. Check back for updates.
— CNBC’s Sara Salinas bestowed to this report.