Dominican Judge Finds Wander Franco Criminally Responsible for Abuse but Exempts Him from Punishment

A Dominican judge ruled Monday that Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco is criminally responsible for the sexual and psychological abuse of a minor but will not serve a sentence. The decision cited evidence that Franco had been subjected to extortion and blackmail by the minor's mother.

The mother received a 10-year prison sentence for sexually trafficking her daughter. Franco was arrested in January 2024 after authorities accused him of maintaining a four-month relationship with a girl who was 14 at the time and transferring thousands of dollars to her mother.

After the ruling, Franco left the courthouse with his lawyer and told reporters he felt calm. He asked fans to continue supporting him and said his lawyers had likely contacted the Rays, though he had not done so personally. Major League Baseball stated it is aware of the verdict and will conclude its investigation at the appropriate time.

Franco's lawyer said the court established that Franco was also a victim and granted a judicial pardon, exempting him from punishment. The full sentencing is scheduled for June 16. Franco signed an 11-year, $182 million contract with the Rays in November 2021.

Authorities in the Dominican Republic began investigating him in August 2023.