Trial begins of wealthy Florida brothers accused of sexual abuse over decades

Prosecutors in New York have initiated a high-profile trial against three brothers from a wealthy Florida family—Tal, Alon, and Oren Alexander—who are accused of a series of sexual crimes spanning several decades. The allegations include rape, sexual assault, and trafficking of dozens of women. The trial, which began on Monday, is set against a backdrop of wealth and power, drawing comparisons to other recent sex-trafficking cases in Manhattan, such as the conviction of musician Sean “Diddy” Combs on prostitution-related charges last year. During the opening statements, Assistant US Attorney Madison Smyser described the brothers as predators who operated under the guise of being party boys. The prosecution claims that over a 12-year period, the Alexanders employed various tactics to lure women and girls into compromising situations. These methods allegedly included drugging victims, providing luxury accommodations, arranging flights, and using alcohol, alongside instances of brute force. The prosecution asserts that the brothers utilized "whatever means necessary" to facilitate their crimes. In contrast, the defense has urged jurors to dismiss the prosecution's narrative as a "monstrous story." They argue that the allegations are unfounded and that the brothers do not deserve to be labeled as predators. The trial is expected to delve into the details of the accusations and the defense's counterarguments as it unfolds in the coming days.