In a significant legal development, Wander Franco, the shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays, was found guilty on Thursday of a charge related to sexual abuse of a minor. This verdict could have dire consequences for Franco's career in Major League Baseball (MLB), as he faces a two-year suspended prison sentence. The relationship in question began in December 2022 in the Dominican Republic, when Franco was 21 and the victim was just 14 years old.
The court's decision, rendered by a unanimous three-judge panel, allows for an appeal to higher courts. Franco, now 24, displayed visible distress as the verdict was announced, rubbing his eyes and keeping his head down. Should he fail to comply with certain conditions—most notably, refraining from approaching minors with sexual intentions—he could be forced to serve the full two-year sentence.
This conviction poses a significant threat to Franco's future in the sport. Given the nature of his crime, obtaining a visa to work in the United States may be nearly impossible. Offenses involving minors are regarded under U.S. immigration law as crimes of moral turpitude, which could render Franco permanently inadmissible. Additionally, Major League Baseball is expected to impose disciplinary action following the resolution of its own investigation into the matter.
Franco signed an 11-year contract worth $182 million with the Rays in November 2021. However, since being placed on MLB’s restricted list in July 2024, he has not received any payments. The Rays still owe him $164 million, and with his conviction, they may seek to void his contract based on moral turpitude grounds. This would allow them to reallocate funds for other purposes.
In response to the verdict, the Rays issued a statement emphasizing their respect for the legal process in the Dominican Republic. They affirmed their commitment to cooperate fully with MLB as it investigates the situation. MLB officials also highlighted their dedication to addressing issues of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.
Franco's last appearance for the Rays was in August 2023, shortly before the news of his relationship surfaced online. Following a recent game against the Kansas City Royals, the announcement of his conviction reverberated throughout the clubhouse. Veteran player representative Pete Fairbanks remarked on the limited discussion of Franco among teammates, acknowledging the team’s focus on winning games and returning to the postseason.
According to Tampa-based immigration attorney J. Tony Lopez, the legal ramifications for Franco extend beyond his criminal sentence. Offenses involving minors typically categorize as aggravated felonies, making it extremely unlikely for him to receive a visa to return to the U.S. Lopez noted that immigration benefits are discretionary and that a criminal conviction of this nature drastically reduces the chances of approval.
The trial also featured the mother of the victim, who was convicted of sexually trafficking her daughter and sentenced to 10 years in prison. Prosecutors demonstrated that she had sought financial gain from Franco and engaged in money laundering. During the trial, the judges took into account multiple factors, including Franco’s age and the complexity of the case, which likely contributed to the lesser sentence of two years.
Franco's defense team is expected to file an appeal within five days of receiving the written sentence. One of his lawyers, Irina Ventura, expressed dissatisfaction with the trial's outcome, claiming fundamental defense points were overlooked. The legal process is still unfolding, and if Franco's appeal is successful, the case would be reviewed by a five-judge panel.
Franco's future in baseball now hangs in the balance. Once considered a rising star alongside players like Bobby Witt Jr. and Gunnar Henderson, his career trajectory has dramatically shifted. With a batting average of .282, 30 home runs, and 130 RBIs in just 265 major league games, Franco was on track for stardom before his legal troubles began.
In addition to the sexual abuse charges, Franco is also facing separate legal issues related to illegal possession of a firearm, which could result in further legal consequences. As he navigates these challenges, the impact on his personal and professional life will be closely monitored by fans and the media alike.
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