The NFL says it will handle the sex solicitation case involving New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft as it would any other issue under the league's conduct policy.
The 77-year-old owner has been charged with soliciting a prostitute in Florida as part of a crackdown on sex trafficking. Hundreds of arrest warrants have been issued. Police are still investigating and there likely will be a league inquiry.
Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg confirmed Monday that his office was charging Kraft and 24 other suspects as part of the investigation into Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Jupiter.
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Aronberg said the charge is a first-degree misdemeanor with penalties including up to a year in jail, a fine, probation and community service.
"I can assure you that our office treats everyone the same whether you have a lot of money or you are indigent. We treat all defendants the same and no one gets any special justice in Palm Beach County," Aronberg said.
A spokesperson for Kraft said last week that he denied engaging in illegal activity.
Aronberg said a summons would be issued for Kraft and other suspects who don't live in the area, and that they wouldn't have to appear in court initially.
The NFL says in a statement Monday its personal conduct policy "applies equally to everyone in the NFL and it will handle "this allegation in the same way we would handle any issue under the policy."
The league adds it is "seeking a full understanding of the facts" and does not want to "interfere with an ongoing law enforcement investigation." The NFL says it will "take appropriate action as warranted based on the facts."
Commissioner Roger Goodell could fine or suspend Kraft from any activities involving the Super Bowl champions.
