Officials said the investigation into Vazquez, 28, began in August 2019 after they obtained information that Vazquez had a reported sexual relationship with a 13-year-old girl who lives in Lee County, Florida.
That victim, who is now 15-years-old, continued to "have a relationship" with Vazquez via text messages and received a sexually explicit video from him in July, according to the release.
FDLE agents, with assistance from Pennsylvania State Police, served a search warrant Tuesday at Vazquez’s apartment in Pittsburgh.
Officials said several electronic devices were seized and will be examined as part of the investigation.
Vazquez was taken to the Allegheny County Jail, where he will face extradition to Lee County.
The Pirates released a statement Tuesday following the arrest:
"Today we were made aware of an active law enforcement investigation involving Felipe Vázquez and his subsequent arrest. We take this matter, and these charges in particular, extremely seriously. We have informed the Commissioner's Office of the investigation and arrest. The Commissioner's Office will immediately place Felipe Vázquez on Administrative Leave (and, as a result, Restricted List) pursuant to the Joint MLB/MLBPA Policy. We need to be respectful to all involved and the ongoing legal proceeding. As a result, the organization, our staff and players cannot comment any further at this time."
This is a developing story. Check WPXI for the latest updates.
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