Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco was formally accused of sexual abuse and sexual exploitation involving a minor, as reported by ESPN on Tuesday. The charges were filed in the Dominican Republic, the home country of both Franco and the minor in question.
According to Kelmin Duncan, a prosecutor from the Puerto Plata District Office, and a spokesperson for the attorney general’s office, Franco has been officially charged with these serious offenses. The legal proceedings commenced following an investigation that began in July 2023, prompted by a formal complaint alleging that Franco, now 23 years old, engaged in a sexual relationship with a minor. A subsequent complaint in August 2023 reiterated these accusations.
The initial complaint specified that Franco had purportedly been involved with a 14-year-old girl. Dominican prosecutors initially brought forth charges of commercial sexual exploitation and money laundering against him on January 3. However, on January 9, a judge modified the charges to include sexual and psychological abuse.
Major League Baseball (MLB) and the MLB Players’ Association had previously extended Franco’s administrative leave until the upcoming Sunday, allowing Dominican authorities additional time to advance their investigation. Franco has been absent from the Rays’ roster since August 14, 2023, initially placed on the restricted list before being moved to administrative leave on March 28.
In addition to the legal proceedings, MLB initiated its own investigation into the allegations. The league’s investigation is anticipated to conclude following the resolution of the criminal case in the Dominican Republic. Depending on the findings, Franco may face further consequences from MLB, including potential disciplinary actions.
Franco, known for his standout performance during his three seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays, achieved career highs in 2022 with 17 home runs, 58 RBIs, and 30 stolen bases, earning a spot on the American League All-Star team.
The situation has garnered significant attention and raised concerns within both the baseball community and the broader public. As the legal and MLB investigations progress, the future remains uncertain for Franco, with potential ramifications extending beyond his career in professional baseball.
