Sexual Abuse Case Against MLB Star Wander Franco Set to Begin in Dominican Court

Prosecutors Report “Convincing Evidence” Against Former All-Star in Case Involving Minor

The legal case against Wander Franco, former MLB All-Star shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays, is gaining momentum in the Dominican Republic as prosecutors prepare to present what they call “convincing evidence” of sexual and psychological abuse involving a minor.

Franco, 24, stands accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl, an allegation that has sidelined his professional baseball career since August 2023. Dominican authorities say the trial is now officially set to begin after earlier delays, with the prosecution stating they have compiled strong evidence to support the charges.

Timeline of Allegations and MLB’s Response

Franco was placed on administrative leave by Major League Baseball in August 2023, shortly after earning his first All-Star selection. Following the emergence of allegations, he was moved to the restricted list and has not played in a professional game since.

The legal case initially involved charges of sexual exploitation of a minor and human trafficking, but has since been reduced to sexual and psychological abuse, which still carry significant penalties under Dominican law.

In addition to facing criminal charges, Franco is also under investigation by MLB through its domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy. The league has yet to announce any final disciplinary action, pending the outcome of the case.

Allegations Include Bribery and Family Involvement

In documents reviewed by the Associated Press, prosecutors allege that Franco, through his mother Yudelka Aybar, transferred 1 million Dominican pesos to the mother of the minor. The payment, reportedly made on January 5, 2023, is believed to have been made in exchange for the mother’s consent to the ongoing relationship between her daughter and Franco.

Prosecutors say the mother of the girl has now been charged with money laundering, asserting that she requested the money after learning of the relationship, which allegedly lasted four months.

The financial transaction has become a central point in the prosecution's case, suggesting attempts to conceal or legitimize the abuse through payment.

A Tarnished Career Amid Scandal

Franco signed an 11-year, $182 million contract with the Rays in November 2021, marking one of the largest deals for a young player in MLB history. But his rise to stardom was quickly overshadowed by the serious accusations that surfaced less than two years later.

In addition to the sexual abuse case, Franco was reportedly caught with a firearm in his vehicle during a traffic stop by Dominican authorities. Although his attorney claimed the gun was legally licensed, the incident added to public concern over Franco’s conduct and judgment during his time away from the field.

Despite these setbacks, Franco has publicly stated that his career is “not over,” though he has yet to offer a full statement addressing the allegations themselves.

Legal Perspective: The Challenge of High-Profile Abuse Cases

Cases involving celebrities or public figures often bring intense media scrutiny, but they also shed light on deeper systemic issues—including the vulnerability of minors, power imbalances, and attempts to silence victims through money or intimidation.

At Survivors of Abuse NY, we believe every survivor deserves to be heard—no matter who the abuser is. Thomas Giuffra, Esq. – The Abuse Lawyer NY, has successfully represented victims of sexual assault, grooming, and institutional failure, including in high-profile and media-sensitive cases.

No one is above the law. If you or someone you love has been abused by a public figure, employer, or caregiver, you have legal options. You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emotional trauma and mental health treatment

• Pain and suffering

• Lost opportunities or career damage

• Punitive damages for egregious misconduct

Contact Survivors of Abuse NY

If you’ve been harmed by a powerful individual or believe someone is using their influence to avoid accountability, don’t wait. Thomas Giuffra, Esq. and the legal team at Survivors of Abuse NY are here to help.

We offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your legal rights and start your path toward healing and justice.

Source:

New York Post