The National Organization for Women is calling for coach Tom Cable's suspension while the Raiders and the NFL investigate allegations that Cable physically abused his first wife more than 20 years ago and abused a former girlfriend in January. NOW president Terry O'Neill sent the request to USA Today.
"Tom Cable's history of violence against women raises a question: Why is he still the head coach of an NFL team?" O'Neill's statement said in part. "Mr. Cable admits having battered his first wife, and he stands accused of battering two other intimate partners as well ...
"The Oakland Raiders, properly, say they are undergoing a 'serious evaluation' of these recent allegations. At the very least, he should be suspended during this process."
Cable said Thursday that he doesn't think outside forces such as NOW will influence his future with the Raiders.
"I don't think so," Cable said. "I think it will be handled properly. I'm going to leave it at that right now."
Cable issued a statement Sunday saying he slapped his first wife, Sandy, "more than 20 years ago," but that he hasn't had inappropriate contact with a woman since. Sandy Cable said in an ESPN report that she was punched in the face.
On Wednesday, Cable said he discussed the most recent allegations with Raiders managing general partner Al Davis earlier this week. Davis has not addressed the matter, though the team issued a statement saying that a "serious investigation" would be undertaken.
http://www.contracostatimes.com/raiders/ci_13725123
