Florida prosecutors filed formal charges against Robert Kraft, the billionaire owner of the New England Patriots football team, and about 25 other men for prostitution at a Florida spa, authorities said on Monday.
Kraft was formally charged just hours before the Patriots played in the AFC Championship Game, according to a probable cause affidavit filed in Palm Beach County.
The charges resulted from a months-long investigation into sex trafficking that focused on several central Florida day spas and massage parlors. The investigation began when a health inspector observed details that suggested women might be living at the day spa.
It was further reported that Kraft allegedly visited the Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Jupiter on Jan. 19 and again on Jan. 20, according to the affidavits.
Kraft currently faces two counts of soliciting someone to commit prostitution. According to Florida law, defendants convicted of those crimes are punishable by up to one year in jail, must pay a $5,000 fine, perform 100 hours of community service and take classes on the dangers of prostitution and human trafficking
As reported by CNN, a spokesperson for Kraft has denied that he committed a crime, saying: “We categorically deny that Mr. Kraft engaged in any illegal activity. Because it is a judicial matter, we will not be commenting further.”
By: Maytinee Kramer
