Rio judge rejects charges against Adriano

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — A Rio de Janeiro judge has rejected charges of drug trafficking against former Brazil striker Adriano.

Prosecutors had charged the striker with connection with drug trafficking because he allegedly bought a motorcycle and gave it as a gift to a known drug dealer in the shantytown where he grew up. But the judge said in a decision announced Thursday that there was not enough evidence to uphold the accusations.

Adriano could have faced up to 10 years in prison if he was convicted.

The 32-year-old Adriano described the charges as "absurd" and said he was "certain" he would be cleared. He said he is "honest" and doesn't "owe anything to anybody."

A starter for Brazil in the 2006 World Cup, Adriano reportedly is negotiating with second-division French club Le Havre.