F
lorida real estate moguls Tal Alexander, Oren Alexander, and his twin brother Alon were arrested yesterday on federal charges of sex trafficking, as well as state charges of sexual battery in Florida. The brothers, from Miami, are accused by prosecutors of conspiring to commit sex trafficking since at least 2010, allegedly drugging, assaulting, and raping dozens of women.

    Federal prosecutors claim the brothers used their wealth and influence to lure victims with promises of luxury experiences, only to assault them at pre-planned locations. The charges come after a series of civil lawsuits were filed against the brothers in New York state courts, alleging rape and sexual assault by multiple women.

    Florida's top prosecutor, Katherine Fernández Rundle, said that those who use their power and wealth to commit crimes will be held accountable. The Alexander brothers' rise to prominence in real estate saw them sell and buy some of the most expensive properties across the US, including a record-breaking $238m Central Park apartment sale.

    The charges against the brothers are part of a dramatic year marked by civil lawsuits and allegations of rape and assault. Another woman has come forward with a civil suit alleging she was raped by Alon and Oren Alexander in a Miami apartment. The Miami-Dade State Attorney used evidence from this woman's case to support the state's criminal charges.

    The brothers, known for flaunting their wealth on Instagram, allegedly planned sexual assaults well in advance using promises of luxury experiences to lure victims. They have denied previous allegations, with their representatives suggesting that accusers were attempting to extort them. The brothers have parted ways with several lawyers and a public relations professional in recent months.