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Tampa Bay Rays' Wander Franco Charged with Sexual Abuse, Human Trafficking of 14-Year-Old Girl

Jul 10, 2024, 10:14 AM

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been formally charged by Dominican authorities with sexual abuse and sexual exploitation against a minor. The charges include allegations of sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl and paying the girl's mother thousands of dollars for her consent to the relationship. Franco now faces additional human trafficking charges, which carry a potential 20-year prison sentence. The MLB has acknowledged the charges and stated that their investigation remains open. Franco has been placed on the restricted list by the MLB following these developments. Franco has been under investigation since July 10, 2023, and was previously on administrative leave.