Getty Image
Former Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco is facing troubling allegations regarding his alleged involvement with an underage individual.
As reported by The Associated Press, prosecutors in Franco’s home country of the Dominican Republic have charged the 22-year-old with engaging in commercial sexual exploitation and money laundering in connection with his alleged relationship with a minor who was reportedly 14 years old at the time.
Prosecutors have requested that a judge impose an $86,000 bond on Franco, prohibit him from leaving the Dominican Republic, and place him under house arrest. They have also alleged that Franco made payments to the minor’s mother, leading to the money laundering charges.
Additionally, prosecutors have asked the judge to prevent the minor’s mother from leaving the country and to place her under house arrest. The judge has several options, including releasing Franco on bond, temporarily detaining him, restricting his travel, or requiring him to make periodic appearances until the investigation or trial is concluded. [via The Associated Press]
Currently, Franco, who was placed on administrative leave by MLB in August, remains incarcerated in the Dominican Republic.
“In accordance with an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, Wander Franco has been placed on Administrative Leave until further notice as MLB continues its ongoing investigation. The administrative leave, effective immediately, is not a disciplinary action under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Child Abuse Policy. We will provide further comments at the appropriate time,” stated MLB in August.
“We fully support the league’s efforts to gain a better understanding of the situation,” commented the Rays in August. “Out of respect for all parties involved, we will refrain from making further statements at this time.”
Franco originally signed with the Rays in 2017, made his professional debut in 2021, and was selected for the All-Star team last season. Throughout his career, the right-handed player has maintained a batting average of .282, hitting 30 home runs and driving in 130 runs.
Major League Baseball is currently conducting an investigation into Franco, and no specific timeline has been provided for its completion.
According to the Source brobible.com