The Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) has a protocol for handling domestic violence and gender-based cases, introduced in 2020 by President Ricardo Dalmau. The protocol was first activated in June after a new accusation against player Walter Hodge Jr. and again in September after charges were filed against José Manuel Baeza, owner of the Capitanes de Arecibo team.
While Hodge Jr. was suspended indefinitely, Baeza has not been suspended, raising questions about the equal application of the protocol. The BSN’s protocol states that it applies to all members, employees, and contractors, and that no team can discipline a player without the president’s written authorization. A committee is investigating Baeza’s case, and President Dalmau will decide on disciplinary action once the committee’s report is received.
Baeza is accused of physically and verbally assaulting a victim during a domestic violence incident on September 22, according to the Puerto Rico Police report. The case has sparked concerns about the consistency of the protocol’s application, with some questioning why Baeza has not been suspended like Hodge Jr.