New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft has been charged with soliciting prostitution following a police sting that was part of a probe into human trafficking at a spa in Florida. Authorities say that nearly 200 people were charged as part of the operation.
"He is being charged with the same offense as the others, and that is soliciting another to commit prostitution," a police official told CNBC. "We're as equally stunned as anyone else."
According to TCPalm.com, police had been investigating Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Jupiter, Florida after receiving reports that the women, who were mostly from China, were being held in "sexual servitude" and were unable to leave the premises.
Officials say they have surveillance footage which shows Kraft and the other men entering the spa. They also noted that Kraft visited the spa on two separate occasions. According to TMZ, the video footage is graphic in nature and captures Kraft, along with other men actively engaging in sexual acts with the women.
A spokesperson for Kraft told the gossip outlet that he denies the allegations.
"We categorically deny that Mr. Kraft engaged in any illegal activity. Because it is a judicial matter, we will not be commenting further."
Kraft has not been taken into custody, but a warrant has been issued for his arrest on the misdemeanor charge.
The NFL said that it "is aware of the ongoing law enforcement matter and will continue to monitor developments.”
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