• Wander Franco faces serious charges including sexual abuse of a minor, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking, with a possible 5-year prison sentence.
• The alleged victim’s mother is also on trial, accused of facilitating the abuse and laundering money, with prosecutors seeking a 10-year sentence.
• A guilty verdict could end Franco’s MLB career, resulting in a U.S. ban and loss of his $174 million contract, even if he’s later cleared by the league.

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic — The courtroom was tense as Wander Franco, once a rising star in Major League Baseball, faced a grim reality: the decision that could change his life forever is just days away. With three stern judges seated in front of him and the weight of the nation watching, Franco stood still, arms behind his back, voice firm.

“I have always wanted one thing—justice,” he told the court. His tone was steady, but the gravity of his words echoed in the packed chamber.

Franco, 24, isn’t just fighting for his freedom. He’s trying to salvage a career, a reputation, and a legacy now hanging by a thread. Accused of sexually abusing a minor, exploiting her, and participating in human trafficking, the Tampa Bay Rays shortstop awaits a verdict expected Thursday.

Prosecutors aren’t holding back. They’re demanding a five-year prison sentence and hefty financial penalties. But what’s most shocking is the extent of the allegations—and the details surrounding them.

A Case That Shocked Baseball and Beyond

The accusations surfaced in August 2023, just days after Franco played his last game. The girl, 14 at the time, claims she was abused by the MLB star with the consent—and even encouragement—of her mother, who is also on trial. Prosecutors allege that Franco gave the mother cash and expensive gifts in exchange for access to her daughter.

According to courtroom testimony, this was not a one-time encounter. The prosecution laid out a pattern of behavior involving money transfers, secret meetings, and shocking claims that Franco once transported the minor by helicopter. Prosecutors painted a picture of premeditated manipulation and abuse, involving not just Franco but his own mother, who allegedly helped send funds to the girl’s family.

The mother of the alleged victim now faces separate charges: human trafficking and money laundering. If convicted, she could serve up to 10 years behind bars.

“This Isn’t Justice,” Says Franco’s Defense

Franco’s legal team has fiercely denied all allegations, insisting that their client is a victim of an elaborate extortion scheme. Defense attorney Irina Ventura claimed the investigation was biased from the start and slammed the exclusion of key evidence.

“Wander is a young man,” Ventura told the court passionately. “He’s being painted as a monster, but he’s just a kid himself. Why aren’t we talking about the unfairness of this case?”

Ventura also accused the prosecution of twisting facts and using Franco’s fame against him, arguing that he was an easy target. The defense maintained that the minor’s family pursued the baseball star for financial gain, not justice.

Still, the prosecutors remain confident. Claudio Cordero, representing the anti-money laundering office, told the judges there’s no question about Franco’s involvement. “We have the records. The money. The messages. The pattern is clear,” he said.

A Delayed Verdict and a Divided Nation

Court cases in the Dominican Republic typically end with a same-day ruling. But not this one. Presiding Judge Jakayra Veras announced Monday that the panel would need more time due to the volume of evidence and emotional testimony presented over several days.

“Justice requires thought and care,” Veras said. “We will deliver our verdict after thorough consideration.”

The delay has fueled speculation and tension throughout the country and in the baseball world. Many Dominicans see Franco as a national hero gone astray. Others believe he’s being unfairly targeted due to his wealth and status.

In Franco’s hometown, public opinion is split. Some residents say the charges are outlandish and insist Wander would never harm a child. Others, especially women’s advocacy groups, argue the justice system has historically failed young girls, and this case could finally set a precedent.

The Fallout: Career on the Brink

The stakes couldn’t be higher for Franco. If convicted, immigration attorneys say the consequences will go far beyond prison time. A guilty verdict could trigger a lifetime ban from the United States, effectively ending his baseball career. He could also lose the remainder of his $174 million contract with the Rays.

Even if he’s acquitted, Franco’s fate in baseball isn’t guaranteed. Under Major League Baseball’s strict domestic violence and sexual misconduct policy, Commissioner Rob Manfred can still issue a suspension—regardless of the trial’s outcome. Past cases have shown MLB isn’t afraid to take action even when legal proceedings don’t end in convictions.

The Rays, who placed Franco on administrative leave after the allegations first surfaced, officially moved him to the restricted list once the criminal charges were filed. As of now, the team has remained silent, likely awaiting the court’s decision before making any final moves.

A Legal Battle Beyond the Diamond

While Franco fights to save his future, the girl’s mother faces her own reckoning. Prosecutors want her locked up in the Rafey Women’s Correctional Center in Santiago. They claim she knowingly exploited her daughter for money and gifts, helping orchestrate the abuse and trying to profit from it.

Her lawyers argue that having money doesn’t equate to laundering it. “The prosecution has not proven any crime,” one attorney told the court. “They’re guessing and throwing accusations.”