LEOMINSTER, Mass. (AP) — A Massachusetts police officer is under investigation by his own department after allegations surfaced that he directed a racial slur at Boston Red Sox outfielder Carl Crawford last week.

Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarella said Thursday the officer is on vacation and will be placed on desk duty when he returns next week during the inquiry.

He did not name the officer but says he is a 5-year veteran and white.

Crawford, who is black, was on a rehab assignment with the Portland Sea Dogs on July 5 when he says before a game against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats in Manchester, N.H., a heckling fan called him a "monday," which can be used as a derogatory term for blacks.

Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner has apologized to Crawford.