New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft is facing charges of misdemeanor solicitation of prostitution after he was twice videotaped paying for a sex act at an illicit massage parlor, police in Florida said Friday. Michael Edmondson, spokesman for the state attorney's office in Palm Beach County, told ESPN that the nature of any charges that the 25 people face will not be released until next week.
The potential charges come amid a widespread crackdown on sex trafficking in Florida from Palm Beach to Orlando. Hundreds of arrest warrants have been issued in recent days as result of a six-month investigation, and more are expected. Ten spas have been closed, and several people charged with sex trafficking have been taken into custody. Police said they secretly planted undercover cameras in targeted massage parlors and recorded the interactions between men and the female employees.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Kraft said they "categorically deny that Mr. Kraft engaged in any illegal activity. Because it is a judicial matter, we will not be commenting further. The NFL said it is "aware of the ongoing law enforcement matter and will continue to monitor developments. The individuals named as having solicited prostitutes could be facing either a first- or second-degree misdemeanor for each count.
Most people charged for the first time with soliciting a prostitute in Florida are allowed to enter a diversion program, said attorney David Weinstein, a former prosecutor.
Kraft would have to perform hours of community service and pay to attend an educational program about the negative effects of prostitution and human trafficking. Kraft lives in Massachusetts and has a home in the Palm Beach area. Though a Democrat, Kraft is friendly with Trump. I was very surprised to see it," Trump said at the White House on Friday.
