NFL: New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft charged with soliciting prostitution

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft.
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Photo credit: Getty

Robert Kraft, the owner of the NFL Super Bowl champions New England Patriots, was charged with two counts of soliciting a prostitute in Jupiter, Florida, police said at a news conference on Friday.

Kraft, 77, is among more than two dozen people charged as part of a police sting, according to police.

Since Kraft bought the Patriots 25 years ago, the team has become the most successful franchise in the National Football League, appearing in 10 Super Bowls and winning six titles, including Super Bowl LIII earlier this month.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Kraft said they "categorically deny that Mr. Kraft engaged in any illegal activity. Because it is a judicial matter, we will not be commenting further."

Spokesmen for the National Football League and the Patriots did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Kraft's influence in the American football world has grown steadily since he purchased the Patriots, to the point that he is widely considered one of the NFL's most powerful and influential owners.

Before this month's Super Bowl, US President Donald Trump said on Face the Nation that he would be backing his good friend and long-time supporter Kraft to win.

Reuters