NFL: The Code of Conduct Applies to Robert Kraft, Too

Photo via AP/Ben Margot

In an updated response to allegations that Patriots owner Robert Kraft solicited sex at a Florida spa, the NFL says Kraft will be held the same standard as everyone else in the league.

“Our Personal Conduct Policy applies equally to everyone in the NFL,” the National Football League said Monday morning. “We will handle this allegation in the same way we would handle any issue under the Policy. We are seeking a full understanding of the facts, while ensuring that we do not interfere with an ongoing law enforcement investigation. We will take appropriate action as warranted based on the facts.”

A new NFL statement on #Patriots owner Robert Kraft’s allegations of soliciting prostitution says the league is seeking “a full understanding of the facts” while not interfering with an ongoing investigation. Here it is in full: pic.twitter.com/8x1XMgen6T

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 25, 2019

Kraft is accused by Florida investigators of twice visiting Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Jupiter, Florida, where police say they captured him on video paying for and receiving sex with women authorities believe may be victims of human trafficking. Kraft, who has denied the allegations, may reportedly be officially charged as early as Monday with two misdemeanor counts of soliciting.

The NFL’s policy provides some guidance for whether and how to mete out punishment to players, owners, and employees involved in “conduct detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in” the league, which may apply regardless of whether someone is “found guilty of a crime.” It also says that “ownership and club or league management have traditionally been held to a higher standard and will be subject to more significant discipline when violations of the Personal Conduct Policy occur.”

It will soon be up to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to weigh the allegations against Kraft, and has a number of options for possible punishment.