Wander Franco Faces Sexual Abuse and Human Trafficking Trial in Dominican Republic
Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, a rising star in Major League Baseball, is set to stand trial in the Dominican Republic on charges of sexual abuse, exploitation of a minor, and human trafficking. The case revolves around allegations that Franco, now 23 years old, engaged in a relationship with a 14-year-old girl and paid her mother a substantial sum of money for her consent.
Details of the Case
The investigation, which spanned over a year, culminated in Judge Pascual Valenzuela ruling that there was enough evidence to proceed to trial. Prosecutors presented documents alleging that Franco, through his mother Yudelka Aybar, transferred $17,000 to the minor’s mother for her consent. The mother is now facing charges of money laundering and is currently under house arrest.
Prosecutors claim that the funds received by the minor’s mother led to a significant increase in her lifestyle, with assets acquired through money provided by Franco. During raids on her residence, authorities discovered large sums of cash, believed to have been delivered by Franco himself.
The Trial Process
The trial is scheduled to begin on December 12 in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, with three to five judges presiding over the case. Unlike in the United States, there are no jury trials in the Dominican Republic. The judges will evaluate the evidence presented by both sides, hear witness testimonies, and ultimately deliver a verdict. Given the average duration of trials in the country, the proceedings could last up to eight months.
If found guilty, Franco could face a lengthy prison sentence of up to 20 years. Despite maintaining his innocence, Franco has refrained from speaking to the media, stating that “everything is in God’s hands.”
Impact on Franco and MLB
The trial has had significant repercussions for Franco’s career and financial standing. Following the opening of the investigation, he was placed on administrative leave by the Tampa Bay Rays, receiving 50% of his salary during that time. However, with the formal filing of charges, his pay was suspended, pending the outcome of the trial.
Major League Baseball (MLB) is closely monitoring the situation and is expected to wait for the conclusion of the trial before deciding on any disciplinary actions. The outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for Franco’s future in the league.
As Franco navigates the legal proceedings in his home country, his once-promising career hangs in the balance, with uncertainty looming over his professional and personal life. The trial represents a critical juncture in the young athlete’s journey, with reverberations that extend beyond the baseball diamond.
