MLS launches independent probe of Whitecaps’ sexual misconduct allegations

Any current member of the Whitecaps' executive team who were involved in matters related to the allegations has been put on administrative leave, the club confirmed Friday.

Major League Soccer (MLS) announced Friday that it will oversee an independent investigation into the Vancouver Whitecaps’ handling of misconduct allegations by members of the women’s team against a former coach.

Any current member of the Whitecaps’ executive team who were involved in matters related to the allegations has been put on administrative leave, the club confirmed Friday.

The league’s move came a day after former player Maloree Enoch went public with accusations against former head coach Hubert Busby Jr., who she said tried to solicit her for sex while she was being recruited for the team in 2010 and 2011.

Global News was unable to reach Busby Jr., but the now-head coach of the Jamaica women’s national team has denied the allegation to the UK’s Guardian newspaper.

In a statement, the MLS said it was hiring an independent counsel to oversee a probe of the allegations, including the Witecaps’ internal processes and culture at the time.

The MLS has committed to making the investigation’s findings public.

In a statement, Whitecaps FC CEO Axel Schuster said the club was “greatly disturbed” by the allegations.

“The courage it takes to come forward cannot be overstated. We respect Malloree’s bravery, appreciate her honesty, and support her entirely. We apologize to Malloree for letting her down,” Schuster said.