Former Financier’s Bail Request Highlights Family Role Amid Serious Charges

Howard Rubin, the 70-year-old former financier facing serious accusations of sex trafficking, is described by his estranged wife as a devoted grandfather who deserves to be released on $50 million bail while awaiting trial. Mary Henry submitted a letter to the court expressing her viewpoint late Thursday, advocating for Rubin to bond out so he can spend time with their three young grandchildren.

In her letter, Henry acknowledged the gravity of the charges but insisted that her experience with Rubin paints a different picture. “He has always placed them at the center of his life,” she said, referring to their family bond, while noting that he remains a caring father and affectionate grandfather known as “Pops.”

Rubin has been in custody at a Brooklyn detention center since his arrest on September 26. He has been accused of luring numerous women to New York City over the course of a decade, where he allegedly subjected them to physical harm and extreme treatment in a setting described as a “dungeon.”

Federal prosecutors contend that Rubin poses a danger to society and is a flight risk, arguing he should remain incarcerated. For one of his alleged victims, the news of his arrest brought relief. She expressed gratitude upon learning he was being held without bail.

Henry filed for divorce in 2021, yet the couple continues to co-parent and remain involved in their grandchildren’s lives, according to a letter Rubin sent to the judge. Defense attorneys reported that Henry has offered their Connecticut home, valued at $1.6 million, as collateral for his bail. Additionally, her brother is on board with risking his own property for the same purpose. They emphasized that Rubin was actively participating in his grandchildren’s lives through weekly swimming lessons before his arrest.

Lawyer Benjamin Rosenberg highlighted Rubin’s community reputation as a dedicated grandfather, noting his strong relationships with his grandchildren’s instructors and family members alike.

Rubin’s next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, where the judge intends to discuss the bail proposal further. Meanwhile, Jennifer Powers, his former assistant and co-defendant, was released on personal recognizance and is also expected in court that day.