Orthwein Becomes Patriot Owner

James Orthwein officially became the majority owner of the New England Patriots on Monday when he purchased the 51% share of the club previously held by Victor Kiam, then reassured fans that he has no plans to move the team.

Orthwein closed the deal with Kiam in St. Louis--where he is involved in an effort to bring an expansion team to the city.

After Kiam missed several deadlines for paying a $38-million note, the NFL briefly considered taking over the team until a permanent owner could be found.