Patriots owner Robert Kraft apologizes in his first statement since solicitation charges
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft said he was "truly sorry" in his first public statement since facing charges of soliciting prostitution in January in a Florida spa scandal.
"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," Kraft said in a written statement.
Kraft, 77, said he had wanted to speak out for weeks, but he did not in deference to the judicial process. Kraft and more than a dozen other men face charges in the Orchids of Asia Day Spa sex-for-pay case. Kraft faces two misdemeanor charges, and he and other first-time offenders have been offered a plea deal.
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"Throughout my life I've tried to do the right thing," Kraft said. "The last thing I would ever want to do was to 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."
His statement comes one day before he is expected to attend the annual NFL owners' meetings, where he could face disciplinary action.
Kraft said moving forward, he wants to "help others and make a difference," and expects to be judged "not by my words, but my actions."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Patriots owner Robert Kraft apologizes in his first statement since solicitation charges