MLB star and Detroit Tigers broadcast accused of sexually abusing a 12-year-old girl decades ago
Craig Monore has been taken off the air indefinitely following the allegations, Bally Sports announced in a statement
MLB broadcaster and former Detroit Tigers player Craig Monroe has been suspended indefinitely from broadcasting duties following allegations of sexual assault by a woman who says the abuse occurred while she was a minor.
The victim, who requested anonymity, spoke to Fox 2 Detroit about her claims. She stated that the alleged abuse began when she was 12 years old. Monroe had stayed with her family while playing for a minor league baseball team in Charlotte County, Florida, in the early 2000s. Monroe played in the Major Leagues from 2001 to 2009, primarily with the Detroit Tigers.
According to the victim, Monroe would enter her room to touch her inappropriately. Their encounters escalated to intercourse when she was 15 years old. She further alleged that after she turned 18, Monroe engaged her in a consensual sexual relationship but also exploited her by involving her with his friends and acquaintances.
The woman has reported these allegations to law enforcement. A spokesperson for the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that they are actively investigating the claims.
“This is an ongoing investigation, and we encourage anyone with information to come forward,” said spokesperson Gabriella Ruiz, as reported by the Detroit Free Press.
Monroe did not respond to multiple requests for comment from the Detroit Free Press.
The Detroit Tigers and Bally Sports, the broadcaster, issued a statement regarding the allegations against Craig Monroe. Monroe, who had been serving as an analyst for Detroit Tigers games on Bally Sports, was removed from the broadcast schedule on June 9 after the allegations surfaced on social media.
“Bally Sports Detroit and the Tigers are aware of the social media allegations and take them seriously. As previously stated, Mr. Monroe has not been on the broadcast schedule and that will continue on an indefinite basis,” the statement read.
“We will have no further comment and any questions should be directed to Mr. Monroe.”
During his career, Monroe played with the Tigers for more than five seasons, including during the 2006 World Series. He also played for the Minnesota Twins, Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Texas Rangers. Since 2012, Monroe has worked as a broadcaster.
The victim explained that she hesitated to come forward due to concerns for her family’s safety and acknowledged the potential attention her claims could attract.
