Ex-NFL star Taylor pleads not guilty to NY rape

NEW CITY, N.Y. (AP) — Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor pleaded not guilty today to an indictment that alleges he had sex with a 16-year-old girl in a New York hotel room.

The former NFL star allegedly paid $300 to the girl, a Bronx runaway, for their encounter in May. Taylor pleaded not guilty through his lawyer to third-degree rape, patronizing a prostitute, sexual abuse and endangering a child.

In the gallery, before his case was called, Taylor, 51, smiled, looked around and said, “It must be a slow news day.” He also said to a friend, “You’re not playing golf today, are you?”

Taylor was arrested May 6, after the girl’s uncle contacted New York City police. He could be imprisoned for up to four years if convicted.

Defense attorney Arthur Aidala said Taylor would challenge the girl’s identification of him. Aidala also said the defense would look into whether all statements made in the case were voluntary.

“A plea bargain is possible at any time in any case,” he said in response to questions. But in this case, “There is no plea bargain. There is no offer.”