Former Brazilian international Adriano was charged by Rio de Janeiro prosecutors Tuesday over alleged links to drug trafficking, officials and reports said.
The former Inter Milan, Fiorentina, Parma and Roma striker, 32, who is trying to revive his career in France, is accused of buying a motorbike in 2007 that was later used by drug dealers in the Vila Cruzeiro favela, where he grew up, reports said.
He faces up to 15 years in prison if found guilty, ESPN reported.
Prosecutors did not request Adriano's arrest but asked for him to surrender his passport.
According to Brazilian media, Adriano has been in France in a bid to revive his career with second-division French club Le Havre.
The former international, who hit 27 goals in 48 appearances for Brazil, last played for the Brazilian club Atletico Paranaense.
But they terminated his contract six months ago.
Source: AFP