Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – Wander Franco, a talented shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays, faced formal charges on Tuesday for allegedly sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl in the Dominican Republic. This development comes six months after a judge initiated an investigation into accusations of sexual and psychological abuse against Franco.
Nairobi Viloria, a spokesperson for the attorney general’s office, disclosed to The Associated Press that prosecutors had officially presented the charges to a judge. While details were scarce, the indictment also mentioned the girl’s mother, stating that Franco allegedly paid her thousands of dollars to permit the relationship, which lasted for four months. Currently, the girl’s mother is under house arrest to await further legal proceedings, with her identity being withheld for the protection of her daughter’s privacy.
The decision to file charges came after the expiration of an initial deadline on July 5, prompting prosecutors to take action. Despite being on administrative leave until July 14 under the MLB’s agreement with the players’ association, Franco is not facing disciplinary measures with regards to the league’s policies on domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. The 23-year-old player, with a $2 million salary this year, remains in his home country as authorities continue their investigation.
Acknowledging the charges against Franco, Major League Baseball stated their ongoing investigation while closely following the case as it progresses. Since his last game on August 12, Franco has not returned to the playing field, having secured an $182 million, 11-year contract in late 2021. In response to the developing situation, Franco’s attorney based in the US, Jay Reisinger, refrained from commenting due to his client not receiving formal notification of the charges.
This case involving Wander Franco has raised significant concerns and cast a shadow over his promising baseball career. As the legal proceedings unfold, all eyes are on the outcome and the potential impact it may have on the player and the sport as a whole. With uncertainty surrounding Franco’s future playing status, the baseball community is left to grapple with the ramifications of these serious allegations.