Kraft sorry for solicitation charges: 'I have extraordinary respect for women'
Robert Kraft has broken his silence on the solicitation charges leveled against him.
In a statement Saturday, the New England Patriots owner apologized to those "who rightfully hold me to a higher standard" and stressed that he has "extraordinary respect for women" after he was charged for exchanging money for sexual acts within a Florida day spa that's been allegedly tied to a human trafficking ring.
"In deference to the judicial process, I have remained silent these past several weeks," Kraft said, per ESPN's Adam Schefter. "To correct some of the misinformation surrounding this matter, my attorney made his first public comments on Friday night. I would like to use this opportunity to say something that I have wanted to say for four weeks.
"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.
"Throughout my life, I have always tried to do the right thing," he continued. "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. I expect to be judged not by my words, but by my actions. And through those actions, I hope to regain your confidence and respect."
Kraft's lawyer slammed the accusations Friday, saying police know "there was no human trafficking" and accused authorities of using illegal surveillance to obtain evidence.
The 77-year-old, who's scheduled to be arraigned March 28, pleaded not guilty in February, and his legal team reportedly rejected a plea deal that would've kept him out of jail but would've required him to admit a trial would result in him being proven guilty.
Kraft also filed a protective order Wednesday in an attempt to stop evidence becoming public, but the sheriff leading the case believes surveillance footage will be released eventually.
The NFL owner will attend the league's annual meeting, which will take place from Sunday to Wednesday in Arizona.
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