An Arizona woman who accused former major league pitcher Trevor Bauer of sexual assault has been charged with fraud and theft by extortion. The indictment, unsealed in Maricopa County Superior Court, alleges that Bauer and another individual were defrauded in a scheme that may have spanned several years. The woman, who sued Bauer in December 2022 for rape allegations dating back to 2020, now faces criminal charges related to fraud.
Court records indicate that the woman does not currently have legal representation for the fraud case. Bauer, who was never arrested or charged in connection with the sexual assault allegations, has denied the accusations and countersued the woman, claiming that she fabricated the pregnancy to extort money from him. Bauer's legal team has stated that the woman made significant financial demands against him.
In a recorded video statement, Bauer maintained his innocence and expressed frustration over the situation. He emphasized his desire to return to work and resume his baseball career. Bauer, who previously served a suspension for violating the league's domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy, has been working to revive his major league career after being released by the Los Angeles Dodgers in January 2023.
Following his release, Bauer played for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Japan's Pacific League and signed a contract to pitch for Mexico's Diablos Rojos this spring. Despite the legal challenges he faces, Bauer remains determined to continue pursuing his passion for baseball.
As the legal proceedings unfold, both Bauer and the woman involved in the case await further developments in the ongoing investigation. The outcome of the criminal charges and any potential impact on Bauer's career in professional baseball remain subjects of interest and speculation within the sports community.
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