Romario released from jail to appear before judge

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) - Brazil great Romario was released from jail on Wednesday, a day after being arrested in a child support case involving his first wife.

Romario was taken into custody on Tuesday for allegedly failing to make child support payments to Monica Santoro, who has custody of the couple's children, Romarinho, 15, and Moniquinha, 19.

Court spokesman Antonio Barros said that after Judge Antonio Aurelio Abi-Ramia questioned Romario, his former wife and their respective attorneys, the former football star "paid what he owed and was allowed to go home."

Barros said that after the 40-minute session, Romario left without speaking to the press.

He said he did not know how much money was involved. He did not provide further information.

Local media say Romario owed between 24,000 to 89,640 reals ($12,250 to $46,000).

Earlier in the day, TV footage showed a smiling yet tired-looking and silent Romario, dressed in a gray sweater and faded blue jeans, pushing his way through a horde of reporters and photographers as he made his way out of the police station.

Five years ago, Romario was detained for the same reason, but was released within hours after proving he paid his wife.

In 1994, Romario led Brazil to the World Cup title and was named world footballer of the year.