Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco is facing serious allegations of sexual exploitation and money laundering in the Dominican Republic, according to court documents and interviews obtained by ESPN. The 22-year-old star is accused of having a months-long relationship with a 14-year-old girl, who he allegedly had sex with when he was 21.
The case against Franco is detailed in a nearly 600-page document presented to the judge at a recent hearing, which includes transcripts of interviews with the young woman and her relatives, as well as messages between Franco and the girl. The allegations, which have been the subject of a nearly six-month investigation, could result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years for Franco.
According to the documents, Franco allegedly used WhatsApp to communicate with the girl, expressing concern about the potential consequences if his team found out about their relationship. He is accused of providing the girl with money and gifts, and allegedly had a strained relationship with her mother, who also faces money laundering charges.
The girl, who is now 15, met Franco online and began a relationship that lasted four months. During that time, Franco allegedly took her out of her house on multiple occasions and provided her with financial support. Prosecutors also allege that Franco’s mother was involved, receiving monthly payments and a new car from Franco.
The case has had serious repercussions for Franco’s career. Major League Baseball launched an investigation into the allegations, and Franco was placed on administrative leave for the remainder of the 2023 season. If he is convicted, he could face a potentially lengthy suspension from the MLB, and obtaining a visa to play in the league could become more complicated.
The Rays, who had high hopes for Franco, could also be impacted by the allegations. If Franco is unable to play, the team may have the option to terminate his contract based on a clause in the league’s uniform player contract.
As the legal proceedings continue, Franco remains free on bail but is facing uncertainty about his future in both baseball and the legal system. The case has also taken a toll on the young girl involved, who is hoping for a resolution to the situation.
The next steps in the case are still pending, as prosecutors have up to six months to investigate before a trial is held. In the meantime, both Franco and the girl are waiting for the outcome of the legal proceedings.