As the Ray Rice domestic violence saga plays out, Carolina Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy, who has been found guilty of assaulting his former girlfriend, continues to play on unpunished by the league.
Neither the Panthers, nor the NFL have taken action against Hardy because he is currently appealing the verdict in his case-they are letting the matter play out legally. His appeal isn't expected to be heard until after the 2014 season has concluded, and since his contract with the team expires after this season they can simply part ways with him.
Panthers owner Jerry Richardson became very emotional when addressing the issue as he accepted the "Echo Award for Indifference," and defended the team's stance in allowing Hardy to continue playing.
"When it comes to domestic violence, my stance is not one of indifference. I stand firmly against domestic violence, plain and simple. To those who would suggest we've been too slow to act, I ask that you consider to not be too quick to judge," Richardson said.
"Over the course of our 20 years, we have worked extremely hard to build an organization with integrity and earn the trust of your community. I look forward to continuing to earn your trust and I thank you for this award."
Panthers head coach Ron Rivera has also discussed the Hardy situation with the media.
"I'm trying not to bury it, I'm trying not to hide from it as far as dealing with the players. I'm trying to make sure they understand the serious nature of what's happening," Rivera said. "But at the same time, we do have a job that we have to do as well."
Hardy was excused from practice Wednesday so he could meet with his attorneys regarding his appeal. He recorded a sack in Sunday's win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and has previously claimed to transform into a "Kraken" on game days.
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