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wealthy real estate broker accused of drugging and sexually assaulting dozens of women in multiple states missed his court hearing due to a mix-up in the case. Oren Alexander, 37, was supposed to appear in Miami federal court for a bail hearing but failed to show up after U.S. Marshals nearly flew him to New York City, where all three brothers have been charged. The mistake occurred when U.S. Marshals in New York issued a transportation order to bring Oren from a federal lock-up in Miami to a detention center in New York City.

    The Alexander brothers, Tal and Alon, were arrested on December 11 and taken into federal custody. Prosecutors allege that the brothers worked together with others to repeatedly drug, sexually assault, and rape victims in New York, Miami, and elsewhere. At least 40 victims have been identified.

    The brothers are charged with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and a separate count of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion. The indictment alleges that they conspired in the sex-trafficking scheme since at least 2010, but prosecutors claim their sexual violence against women spans more than 20 years, dating back to when the men were in high school.

    The brothers allegedly used the promise of luxury experiences and travel to lure women to locations where they were forcibly raped or sexually assaulted. They arranged for these assaults well in advance, using group WhatsApp chats to discuss "imports" of women and splitting costs for lodging and flights. The brothers co-founded a real estate firm that offers luxury listings in major cities, including New York City and Miami.

    Their past clients include celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. The brothers' attorney has stated that they will enter a not guilty plea and address the charges in court.