5 Things To Know About Robert Kraft's Charges

Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots who has risen to become one of the most powerful figures in American sports, faces charges of soliciting a prostitute after an investigation into an international human trafficking ring resulted in dozens of busts across South Florida.

Kraft was one of 25 people charged in relation the investigation into Orchids of Asia Day Spa & Massage in Jupiter, Fla., local authorities said. Police said they have video of Kraft paying for and receiving sex acts.

Kraft has worked hard to not only sit at the head of the NFL's table, but also to become one of the most prestigious business tycoons in New England. Where his legacy goes from here remains to be seen.

Here are five things to know about the story:

Legal implications

A warrant for Kraft could come as soon as Monday, according to reports, but the police won't be coming for him. Because of the nature of the misdemeanor charges, Kraft would only be subject to arrest in Florida. If and when Kraft would ever need to step into a courtroom would depend on how his attorneys and the prosecutors go about things. The NFL Network reported the maximum prison time Kraft could see is 120 days, but don't hold your breath on a billionaire first-time offender doing much hard time.

League implications

The story is still in its infancy, and the NFL is likely to let it play out for a bit, but eventually the league could discipline Kraft and/or the team for his role regardless of the legal outcome. ESPN's Adam Schefter said punishment likely wouldn't be heavier than a fine and potential suspension.

Speaking of Schefter...

Kraft is one of the richest men in the country and the most successful sports owner of the 21st century. But he may not be the biggest name involved. "I’m also told that Robert Kraft is not the biggest name involved down there in South Florida," Schefter said Friday afternoon. A spokesperson for the Palm Beach County state attorney's office told Deadspin, "Nobody around here has any idea what [Schefter] is referring to."

Another black eye

The Patriots are no strangers to scandal. The team was famously stripped of draft picks and fined for 2007's Spygate, while Tom Brady was suspended four games for 2015's Deflategate. Their most notable and sinister issue came off the field when tight end Aaron Hernandez was convicted for the murder of Odin Lloyd. (His conviction was later stricken after he committed suicide in his cell.)

What are people saying?

Not much.

A spokesperson for Kraft said they "categorically deny" the charges in a brief statement.

President Trump, a longtime friend of Kraft, said in the Oval Office, "Well it's very sad. I was very surprised to see it. He's proclaimed his innocence totally."

Devin McCourty, Patriots safety and a team captain, told NBC Sports Boston, "I think when you see things come out like that, you gotta let it play out. See what it is and what it isn't and go from there. [Kraft] has been a great person for me to lean on as far as just social justice stuff, a guy to talk to. Always present in the locker room, always there to talk to guys. So I've had the opportunity to build that kind of relationship with him."

The NFL said in a statement it is aware of "the ongoing law enforcement matter and will continue to monitor developments."

A statement from Gov. Charlie Baker said he "finds these allegations deeply disturbing and condemns all acts of sexual exploitation."

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