CINCINNATI (AP) — Cincinnati Reds pitcher Mike Leake wants to enter a diversion program that would likely involve community service for his shoplifting charge.
Leake’s lawyer asked Tuesday that Leake be considered for the Hamilton County court program for first-time offenders. The 23-year-old was arrested Monday on a first-degree misdemeanor charge for allegedly removing price tags from six T-shirts in a Macy’s store and trying to leave without paying.
If accepted into the program, Leake would pay a $200 fee, likely perform volunteer work and take a class, and face other requirements including admitting guilt. Completion could result in his record being wiped clean.
His next court date is May 18.
The Reds haven’t said whether Leake will make his scheduled start Thursday.
