Wander Franco formally charged with sexual abuse and sexual exploitation against a minor

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been formally charged with sexual abuse and sexual exploitation against a minor in the Dominican Republic, ending hopes that charges would not be brought against him and he would be cleared.

Franco has been away from the Rays for nearly a year since the initial accusations arose last August.

Major League Baseball placed Franco on administrative leave last August, shortly after accusations first surfaced on social media alleging inappropriate relationships with minors. A complaint was reportedly filed against him in the Dominican Republic in July 2023, and later at least two other girls made similar accusations.

Franco was summoned back to the Dominican Republic in December but failed to appear for a meeting with prosecutors, leading to his arrest and a search of his residence in Baní.

Charges were not immediately filed, and Franco had been required to communicate monthly with judicial officials. He now faces up to five years in prison if convicted.

Franco signed an 11-year, $182 million contract with the Rays in 2021, though he was officially removed from the team’s 40-man roster before this season’s Opening Day.