Dominican prosecutors have leveled severe accusations towards Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco.
The 22-year-old All-Star participant faces prices of business sexual exploitation and cash laundering following allegations of a relationship with a then 14-year-old.
The case has taken a regarding flip with accusations additionally directed on the minor’s mom.
Franco’s severe authorized accusations within the Dominican Republic
Dominican prosecutors are looking for stringent measures towards Franco.
They’ve requested an $86,000 bond, urged the choose to bar him from leaving the Dominican Republic, and proposed home arrest.
The cash laundering prices stem from allegations that Franco made funds to the minor’s mom.
Prosecutors emphasize that these measures are essential to “assure the integrity of the method.”
ESPN reported that no less than two people have filed authorized motion towards Franco, whereas a 3rd has accused him of improper habits.
Each Dominican authorities and MLB are actively investigating the allegations. The seriousness of the costs has led prosecutors to ship proof to a choose, who will rule on Franco’s future.
The choose, based mostly in Puerto Plata, will analyze paperwork and proof collected through the months-long investigation, with a call anticipated on Friday.
The choose has a number of choices, together with releasing Franco on bond, non permanent arrest, stopping him from leaving the nation, or requiring occasional appearances till the investigation concludes.
Franco, an All-Star participant, stays in jail after being detained on Monday in Puerto Plata.
His new lawyer, Teodosio Jquez Encarnacin, has stored a decent lid on particulars, stating solely that Franco is doing effective.
Franco hasn’t performed in MLB since August
Franco’s troubles started in August when he was accused of improper relationships on social media.
Positioned on Main League Baseball’s Restricted Record, he continued to be paid for the rest of the season regardless of not enjoying since August 12.
The Rays, who signed Franco to an 11-year extension price $182 million in November 2021, expressed help for league investigations in August.
“We help any steps taken by the league to higher perceive the scenario,” the Rays stated in a press release in August. “Out of respect for all events concerned, we’ve got no additional feedback presently.”
Because the authorized proceedings unfold, Wander Franco’s future in each the Dominican Republic and MLB hangs within the stability.
The severity of the costs and the continuing investigations will undoubtedly have lasting repercussions on his profession and private life.
