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Mendoza Rugby Players Detained in City, face Extradition to Chile on Sexual Assault Allegations
Mendoza, Argentina – Two Mendoza natives who recently played professional rugby in Chile were arrested yesterday in Mendoza city following a request for their detention from Chilean authorities. Enzo federico Falaschi Regalado and Matías Ignacio Morales Manrique are currently being held as the Chilean government initiates extradition proceedings.
The arrests, carried out by the Federal Police on Colón Street near a local gym, stem from allegations of sexual assault made in Santiago, Chile. According to facts released by Chilean authorities, the two men are suspected of assaulting multiple hockey players at a property in Vitacura, Chile, in August 2024. Reports indicate that one of the complainants had previously been in a relationship with one of the accused.
Federal Judge Leopoldo Rago Gallo, presiding over federal Court No. 1 of Mendoza, authorized the arrests with instructions to prevent the suspects from leaving the jurisdiction.
Falaschi and Morales had completed their contracts with the Stade Français rugby club in Chile and returned to Mendoza prior to their arrest. Thay are currently being held at Unit 32 of the Courts on Calle España and Pedro Molina, awaiting the outcome of the extradition request.
Both Falaschi and Morales maintain their innocence. They claim the encounters were consensual and that the situation was elaborate by alcohol consumption. One complainant has suggested the possibility of a third party introducing a substance into their drinks during the alleged incident.
The investigation remains ongoing, with Chilean authorities leading the prosecution. This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
