New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft has issued a public apology in regards to his charges stemming from an investigation into human trafficking in Jupiter, Florida. Kraft was charged on two counts soliciting prostitution back in February of this year. In the time since the charges were filled, Kraft, as well as the Patriots and the NFL, have said next to nothing regarding the legal situation that Kraft has found himself in.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on the released statement via Twitter.
Statement from Patriots’ owner Robert Kraft: pic.twitter.com/GiswaNQxh4
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 23, 2019
In the statement, Kraft claims his silence since the incident has been in “deference to the judicial process”. He goes on to acknowledge that he has hurt and disappointed fans, friends, and family. While never addressing the allegations directly, Kraft vowed to use his platform to help others while regaining the confidence of the public through his actions not just his statements. He added:
“Throughout my life, I have always tried to do the right thing. The last thing I would ever want to do is disrespect another human being. I have extraordinary respect for women; my morals and my soul were shaped by the most wonderful woman, the love of my life, who I was blessed to have as my partner for 50 years.”
The apology comes after a motion to keep video evidence private until the trial was denied. Jupiter police claim that the video shows Kraft engaging in the solicitation of a prostitute and the sexual acts that followed on multiple occasions. Kraft’s lawyers claim that evidence in the criminal investigation was obtained illegally. Earlier this week, the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s office offered Kraft the chance to have his charges dropped on the stipulation that he’d admit he would have been found guilty in a trial. He refused the offer.
