Kraft apologizes: I expect to be judged by my actions

Robert Kraft, the New England Patriots owner facing charges that he solicited prostitutes at a Florida spa, issued a statement of apology on Saturday while saying he expects to be judged for his actions.

“I am truly sorry. I know I have hurt and disappointed my family, my close friends, my co-workers, our fans and many others who rightfully hold me to a higher standard,” he said. “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.” 

“As I move forward, I hope to continue to use the platform with which I have been blessed to help others and to try to make a difference,” he added.“I expect to be judged not by my words, but by my actions. And through these actions, I hope to regain your confidence and respect.”

Statement from Patriots’ owner Robert Kraft: pic.twitter.com/GiswaNQxh4

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 23, 2019

Kraft, a longtime friend of President Trump, is facing two charges of soliciting prostitution at the Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Jupiter, Florida.{mosads}

A detective said the acts allegedly committed by Kraft and the others were caught on video. The charges stemmed from a larger investigation into human trafficking. 

“We categorically deny that Mr. Kraft engaged in any illegal activity,” a Kraft spokesperson said in a statement after the charges were announced. “Because it is a judicial matter, we will not be commenting further.”

“There was no human trafficking and law enforcement knows it. The video and the traffic stop were illegal and law enforcement just doesn’t want to admit it. The state attorney needs to step up and do the right thing and investigate how the evidence in this case was obtained,” Kraft’s lawyer added in a statement to ESPN on Saturday.

Kraft has reportedly resisted accepting a plea deal that would allow him to avoid jail time. Under the plea deal, Kraft would have to pay a fine, complete an education course on prostitution and serve 100 hours of community service. He also would have to review the evidence against him and admit he would have been found guilty.

Kraft is expected to appear in court next week.