Sheriff expects videos in Kraft case to be released as public record

Martin County Sheriff William Snyder expects surveillance videos of New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft to eventually be released to the public, according to Darren Hartwell of NBC Sports Boston.

Authorities say they have footage of Kraft and others visiting the Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Palm Beach County, Fla., which is involved in a human trafficking investigation that resulted in Kraft being charged with soliciting prostitution.

Even if the courts honor Kraft's request to not make evidence in his case public, Snyder said the videos would still likely be released after a verdict is reached.

"Once a case is over, it's not an ongoing investigation," Snyder said. "There has to be a specific reason not to release a public record. And the fact that there is sexual activity is not an exemption."

"I watched and just left the room," he added. "There is nothing to see. It's pretty ugly."

However, prosecutors are offering to drop the soliciting prostitution charges against Kraft and 24 others in exchange for admitting they would have been proven guilty during a trial. That type of agreement would also result in the evidence - including the videos - being sealed, according to ESPN investigative reporter T.J. Quinn.

Despite the offer, Kraft will reportedly reject the deal. He's denied any wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty to the charges, which were revealed in late February.

Copyright (C) 2019 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.