Dominican Prosecutors Seek Prison Sentence for Wander Franco

Prosecutors in the Dominican Republic are pushing for a five-year prison sentence for Wander Franco, the shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays. This comes amid ongoing legal issues involving allegations of sexual abuse.

On Monday, prosecutors stated that there is substantial evidence supporting claims that Franco engaged in a four-month relationship with a minor and allegedly sent money to the girl’s mother in exchange for her consent. Reports indicate he may have offered $68,500 and $35,000, which were supposedly found during a raid on his mother’s home.

Prosecutor Jose Martinez emphasized the seriousness of the charges, stating, “We are demanding five years in prison for a crime that has a proven track record of sexual abuse against minors.” Franco is facing multiple accusations, including sexual abuse, human trafficking, and the sexual and commercial exploitation of minors.

Details from the case suggest that Franco invited the girl to spend several days with him for sexual purposes and financially incentivized her mother to refrain from reporting the situation.

In addition to the five-year sentence sought for Franco, prosecutors are recommending a ten-year sentence for the girl’s mother, who is also facing allegations of sexually trafficking her daughter. The mother is currently under house arrest and facing money laundering charges.

As for Franco, his legal team has indicated they intend to dismiss the charges against him. He has not participated in any games since August 12, 2023, following accusations on social media regarding an inappropriate relationship. Consequently, he has been placed on Major League Baseball’s restricted list.

“I heard everything they were saying during the reading of the indictment,” Franco remarked earlier this month, expressing a desire for justice to prevail.

At 24 years old, Franco was in his third season with the Rays, having signed an 11-year, $182 million contract back in 2021.