WELLINGTON,, Fla.--Murray Kessler was fired from all his duties at the Winter Equestrian Festival on March 27  following an incident on Feb. 7 in which a female employee accused Kessler of battery. 

Murray Kessler Lenore Brown, sponsorship director of Wellington International, accused Kessler of battery, saying that Kessler grabbed her hair and forced her head toward his crotch while they were in the VIP dining club. 

Brown filed an offense report with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office on Feb. 17.

Brown was crouching to talk to clients while Kessler was standing above her.

According to the report,  “grabbed her hair with both hands and pulled her head backward, positioning her head in his crotch area so she was looking up at him.”

Kessler continued to hold her head while talking about a presentation in the ring.

Four people corroborated this incident in sword statements. 

At the time, Wellington International provided a statement that read, “Wellington International (WI) is aware of a complaint involving two of its employees. WI respects the rights of all individuals; the company takes any allegations very seriously and has initiated a full and thorough investigation. We believe it is important that any review be conducted carefully and completely. We will not be commenting further while the process is ongoing.”

No arrest was made, and no charges were brought against Kessler at that time.

 

BROWN continued to speak about the incident and publicly complained that Wellington International had done nothing about it. 

Wellington International sent out this press release on March 27.

Wellington International today announced the termination of Murray Kessler from Equestrian Sports Production, LLC and its affiliated entities, as well as from the management committee of Wellington Lifestyle Partners, effective immediately.

This action comes as an independent investigation has been conducted following a situation involving Mr. Kessler. Upon learning of the matter, the organization acted immediately to support the employee who brought it forward. Consistent with company policies, steps were taken to ensure their safety and well-being. Following notification of the incident, the company initiated an independent investigation within 24 hours, demonstrating its commitment to a thorough and objective review. Any reports or suggestions to the contrary are inaccurate. Today’s announcement underscores Wellington International’s commitment to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. This matter continues to be handled thoughtfully and responsibly, with the best interests of our team, patrons and community at heart.

As the organization moves forward, it does so with experienced leadership and a continued focus on stability and excellence. Michael Stone, President of Wellington International, will assume executive oversight of operations. Stone has led Wellington International for nearly two decades. In this expanded role, he continues to oversee management of the premier equestrian competition venue in Wellington, Florida. He serves as a key liaison to both the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), reinforcing the organization’s superior reputation across the sport’s governing bodies.