Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco faces formal charges of sexual abuse against a minor

In a developing story out of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been formally charged with sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. The prosecutors in the Dominican Republic made the decision to press charges after the initial deadline expired, following a judge's order for an investigation into sexual and psychological abuse involving the minor. The indictment also includes the minor's mother, who allegedly received thousands of dollars from Franco to consent to the relationship, which lasted four months. The girl's mother is currently under house arrest, and Franco, 23, is on administrative leave by Major League Baseball and the player's association. Franco, who has not played since August 2023, remains under contract with the Rays through 2032 and is reportedly owed $174 million. The allegations against him include paying the girl's mother for consent and engaging in a relationship with the minor. The legal process in the Dominican Republic has now paved the way for Franco to face trial in his native country. Despite the charges, administrative leave is not considered disciplinary under MLB's policy, and Franco continues to receive his $2 million salary. The case against Franco involves accusations of sexual exploitation and abuse, with prosecutors stating that he engaged in a relationship with the girl when she was 14 and he was 21. The Code for the Protection of the Rights of Children and Adolescents in the Dominican Republic defines sexual abuse as any relationship between a minor and a person five years older. Franco, a rising star in Major League Baseball, has been included in an All-Star Team and is known for his talent on the field. He is married with two children and resides in Tampa with his family. As the legal proceedings unfold, Franco's U.S.-based lawyer has refrained from commenting on the charges as Franco has not yet received formal notification. The investigation into the alleged relationship with a minor continues, and Franco has agreed to a lucrative contract with the Rays. The case has garnered significant attention both in the sports world and beyond, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations and the legal process ahead for the young baseball star.