Robert Kraft will plead not guilty to solicitation charges

The Robert Kraft saga continues.

The New England Patriots' owner pleaded not guilty to charges on two misdemeanor counts of first-degree solicitation on Tuesday. Prosecutors alleged last month that Kraft solicited a prostitute in Jupiter, Florida, saying they obtained video evidence of his alleged crime but would drop the charges if he paid a fine and agreed to admit his guilt and do community service.

Kraft did not speak publicly on the matter until last Saturday when he issued a statement of apology. "I am truly sorry," he said at the time. "I know I have hurt my family, my close friends, my co-workers, our fans, and many others who rightfully hold me to a higher standard."

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But, per ESPN, the 77-year-old will not take the deal. Instead, Kraft is pleading not guilty to charges on two misdemeanor counts of first-degree solicitation, and has asked for a jury trial.

Kraft could be assigned 100 hours of community service and a $5,000 fine if found guilty. He technically could face up to a year in prison, as well, but, per ESPN, that is unlikely.