Prosecutors Threaten New Move in Kraft Sex Case

That means releasing footage from a Florida spa
By Neal Colgrass,  Newser Staff
Posted Apr 17, 2019 2:49 PM CDT
Robert Kraft 'Sex Video' Is Coming Out: Papers
In this April 10, 2019, file photo, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft leaves his seat during an NBA basketball game between the Brooklyn Nets and the Miami Heat, in New York.   (AP Photo/Kathy Willens, File)

You may soon be watching video of Robert Kraft engaging in sex acts with alleged prostitutes at a Florida spa—if prosecutors follow through on their plan to release it, the Boston Globe reports. The Palm Beach County state attorney's office argued Wednesday in court papers that it can't wait for a judge to consider unsealing the video while prosecuting Lei Wang, the Orchids of Asia Spa's alleged manager. Kraft's lawyers immediately filed to block the release. "If the affidavit says what happened, what is the interest the public has in seeing it?" Kraft attorney William Burck said last week, per NBC Boston. "It's basically pornography."

Kraft's lawyers also said the video would "destroy" any chance of an impartial trial. The footage would include images of the 24 other men also charged with allegedly paying prostitutes for sex at the spa. Kraft, 77, is up on two misdemeanor counts of soliciting prostitution. So far the New England Patriots owner has apologized to family, co-workers, and fans, but denies doing anything illegal. The New York Times says the video-release may be an attempt by prosecutors to pressure Kraft into pleading guilty. On the upside, prosecutors say the state attorney's office usually blurs out "obscene or pornographic images" before releasing them. (More prostitution stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X