LOS ANGELES » The board of clothing chain American Apparel has voted to oust founder Dov Charney as chairman and notified him of its intent to remove him as president and chief executive.

The move Wednesday night means Charney is suspended as president and CEO of the Los Angeles-based chain pending a 30-day period before he can be terminated.

The board said in a statement that the proposed firing is for cause, and cited an "ongoing investigation into alleged misconduct," without giving details.

Charney has been the subject of several lawsuits alleging inappropriate sexual conduct with female employees. He has acknowledged having sexual relationships with workers, but said they were consensual.

Charney could not immediately be reached for comment.

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer John Luttrell has been named interim CEO.