CHARLOTTE - The Carolina Panthers say they have launched an internal investigation into workplace misconduct allegations against founder and owner Jerry Richardson. 

The team said Friday former White House Chief of Staff Erskine Bowles is overseeing the investigation by a Los Angeles-based law firm. 

“The Carolina Panthers and Mr. Richardson take these allegations very seriously and are fully committed to a full investigation and taking appropriate steps to address and remediate any misconduct.  The entire organization is fully committed to ensuring a safe, comfortable and diverse work environment where all individuals, regardless of sex, race, color, religion, gender, or sexual identity or orientation, are treated fairly and equally. We have work to do to achieve this goal, but we are going to meet it. Erskine Bowles is a trusted leader of unquestioned integrity. We look forward to this report, which we know will be honest and thorough,” team spokesman Steven Drummond said.

A release from the team reads, "Because this matter is under an ongoing legal review, the Carolina Panthers cannot comment publicly on the specifics of the allegations."

Also, Head Coach Ron Rivera released a statement to ESPN saying, "I have had a strong relationship with Mr. Richardson during my time with the Panthers, I have enormous respect for the man, but will wait for the results of the investigation before making any judgment."

The 81-year-old Richardson brought NFL football to the Carolinas in 1993.