Tampa Bay Rays star Wander Franco is being accused of sex trafficking just one day after he was indicted for sexually abusing a minor in the Dominican Republic.
On Tuesday, the 23-year-old shortstop was charged with paying a 14-year-old’s mother thousands of dollars to have a sexual relationship with her. This illicit arrangement reportedly lasted for four months. She has also been charged and remains on house arrest. On Wednesday, authorities in the Dominican Republic added additional charges to Franco’s indictment, accusing the baseball player of illegal migrant smuggling and human trafficking.
He was initially arrested in January 2024 in the Caribbean country following a three-hour interview with authorities. However, the investigation had been underway since 2023, leading to Franco’s being placed on administrative leave from the Rays. His last game was played on August 12th, 2023.
Franco is facing serious prison time, the most severe being between 10 and 15 years for rape. He is also facing 15 to 20 years for the trafficking claims. Franco has been in the Dominican Republic as the investigation continues and is required to make monthly court visits. The Rays negotiated an 11-year contract with Franco for $182 million in November 2021. Despite his suspension, Franco has still earned $2 million this year.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Major League Baseball wrote, “We are aware of the charges against Mr. Franco. Our investigation remains open, and we will continue to closely monitor the case as it moves forward.”
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