Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic (AP) — Dominican prosecutors have requested that Tampa Bay Rays player Wander Franco face legal action on Monday. Confronted with charges of sexual abuse related to a 14-year-old girl at the time of the alleged crime, he has been sentenced to five years in prison.
Prosecutors claimed there was sufficient evidence indicating that Franco had a four-month relationship with the minor and had made significant financial transfers to the girl’s mother to facilitate the illegal relationship.
During a raid at the home of the minor’s mother, prosecutors reported finding $68,500 and an additional $35,000, which they allege were delivered by Franco.
“We are seeking a five-year prison sentence for a crime with a clear history of sexual abuse against minors,” stated prosecutor Jose Martinez.
Additionally, prosecutors are calling for Wander to serve 10 years in a Puerto Plata prison, suggesting that the minor’s mother played a role in sexually trafficking her daughter.
In a prior hearing, the prosecutor outlined the evidence presented, describing it as “compelling” and “convincing.”
“What is the status of Wander? Is he an accomplice to Vanessa or the mastermind behind a criminal conspiracy?” questioned Irina Ventura, one of Franco’s lawyers, highlighting the uncertainty in the prosecutors’ claims.
Franco’s legal team has also requested the court to dismiss all charges against him and throw out the case.
After concluding discussions from both sides, the University Court of Puerto Plata, where Franco’s trial is occurring, announced that it would deliver a final verdict on the case Thursday afternoon.
Documents submitted by prosecutors to a judge last year, which were obtained by the Associated Press, reportedly indicate that Franco agreed to transfer 1 million pesos ($17,000) to the minor’s mother on January 5, 2023, through his mother, Yudelka Eibar, in connection to the alleged abuse.
Franco was in his third season in Major League Baseball when his career abruptly halted in August 2023. He signed an 11-year, $182 million contract in November 2021 and is currently on the restricted list of Major League Baseball.
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Source: apnews.com