NEW YORK, NY – Allegations of disturbing and violent acts have emerged against retired financier Howard Rubin, 70, and his personal assistant, Jennifer Powers, 45. The two are accused of spending $1 million to recruit women for sex acts that allegedly turned violent. Rubin appeared in Brooklyn Federal Court, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges.
A ten-count indictment claims that from 2009 to 2019, Rubin and Powers targeted vulnerable women, including those struggling with addiction or previous abuse, for their illicit activities. Powers is accused of organizing these encounters, arranging travel, and securing nondisclosure agreements to maintain secrecy.
Prosecutors allege that Rubin subjected the women to brutal treatment, causing significant harm and instilling fear for their safety. The incidents reportedly took place in luxury hotels and a Manhattan penthouse, which Rubin had partially converted into a soundproof “sex dungeon,” complete with BDSM equipment and devices capable of delivering electric shocks.
The indictment claims that Rubin and Powers misled some women, including former Playboy models, about the extent of physical and sexual violence involved. In some cases, the safe word was allegedly ignored, and women were encouraged to consume alcohol and sedatives, leaving them unable to consent due to unconsciousness.
Rubin is accused of threatening the women with legal and public repercussions if they attempted to seek justice. Financial records indicate Rubin supported Powers’ lifestyle, covering her Manhattan rent, private school tuition for her children, and other expenses totaling approximately $8 million. Additionally, Rubin faces bank fraud charges related to Powers’ Texas home mortgage.
Prosecutors disclosed that there are numerous other alleged victims not yet included in the current charges. Powers was arrested in Texas and is scheduled to appear before a judge on Monday.
In 2017, Rubin, Powers, and others were sued by some of the women involved, highlighting the ongoing legal battles surrounding these allegations.