Robert Kraft wants video evidence from a prostitution sting kept from the public. The media want it released

12 APR 19 09:28 ET

By Hollie Silverman and Rosa Flores, CNN

(CNN) — A hearing is scheduled Friday to determine whether officials will release video evidence from a prostitution sting that resulted in misdemeanor charges against New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft.

Friday’s hearing at the Palm Beach County Courthouse was set after media outlets, including CNN, requested that video from the sting, which allegedly shows Kraft receiving paid sexual services at a Florida day spa in January, be released.

Attorneys for Kraft filed a second amended motion in court Wednesday, requesting that a judge issue a protective order preventing the video’s public release.

The motion argues that the release of video evidence would “destroy any prospect” of a fair trial. Kraft’s attorneys filed the first motion for the protective order March 21.

Separately, Kraft’s attorneys have asked the judge to keep the video out of the trial, arguing in part that police obtained it illegally. His defense first filed that request March 28, and a hearing on that matter is scheduled for April 26.

Kraft was charged, along with dozens of others, with solicitation of prostitution after a sting at the Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Jupiter, Florida, in February. He has denied through a spokesman that he committed a crime.

Hundreds of people were charged statewide in the multijurisdictional sting that began in October.

Kraft has waived his arraignment and requested a jury trial.

His attorneys have also raised questions about the legality of the surveillance that was conducted because Kraft and others charged with solicitation were not, in fact, charged with human trafficking.

In court documents, Kraft’s attorneys argue law enforcement provided false information in the affidavit to obtain a warrant for the prostitution sting, thus making the video evidence inadmissible.

Florida prosecutors offered to drop misdemeanor charges against him in exchange for fines, community service and an admission that he would be found guilty if he went to trial. But a source familiar with the case told CNN that Kraft will not accept the deal.

“I am truly sorry,” Kraft said in a statement last month. “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.”