Rafael Furcal, a former Dominican shortstop in Major League Baseball, has been taken into custody in Florida on charges of alleged aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and hurling a projectile at an occupied vehicle. The incident took place last Monday, and Furcal voluntarily surrendered to Broward County authorities on Wednesday. Following his arrest, he was released on a $7,500 bond, with $5,000 allocated for the aggravated assault charge and $2,500 for the projectile accusation.
The three-time All-Star claimed he acted in self-defense, using a rock to protect himself against a truck driver who allegedly threatened him with a knife. The Sunrise Police Department is conducting an ongoing investigation, and further details about the incident have yet to be disclosed.
Rafael Furcal, 47, currently residing in Weston, Florida, had an illustrious MLB career, playing for teams such as the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, St. Louis Cardinals, and Miami Marlins. He was named Rookie of the Year in 2000, participated in three All-Star Games, and contributed to the Cardinals' World Series victory in 2011. Furcal is also remembered for executing one of the rare unassisted triple plays in MLB history in 2003. Additionally, he played for Dominican teams like Leones del Escogido and Águilas Cibaeñas, and is famous for a memorable home run known as the "Furcalazo" during the 2008 Dominican League Final, critical to Águilas' 20th championship win.
This isn't Furcal's first legal encounter; he has reportedly amassed a fortune exceeding $85 million during his tenure in the top tier of baseball. Throughout his professional career, he was arrested twice for driving under the influence, in 2000 and 2004. He is currently free as legal proceedings continue. His name is no longer listed among active inmates at the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO).
Legal Troubles of Rafael Furcal
What charges is Rafael Furcal facing in Florida?
Rafael Furcal is facing charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and throwing a projectile at an occupied vehicle.
What was Rafael Furcal's defense regarding the incident?
Rafael Furcal claimed that he acted in self-defense, using a rock to protect himself from a truck driver who allegedly attacked him with a knife.
What notable achievements did Rafael Furcal have in MLB?
Rafael Furcal was a three-time All-Star, Rookie of the Year in 2000, and a World Series champion with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011. He also executed an unassisted triple play in 2003.