Rays' Wander Franco arrested, Dominican prosecutors allege 'commercial sexual exploitation,' per report

The Dominican Republic arrested Tampa Bay Rays shortstop on Monday afternoon. However, it’s crucial to note that Franco's arrest was not linked to the progress of the ongoing investigation surrounding his alleged inappropriate relationships with multiple minors. Franco and his new lawyers, Teodosio Jáquez Encarnación and Juan Francisco Rodríguez Consoró, met with prosecutors on Monday to discuss these allegations. Evidence was presented to a judge by the prosecutors on Wednesday, with a decision on future proceedings expected on Friday.

The prosecution in the Dominican Republic has charged Wander Franco with commercial sexual exploitation and money laundering. These charges arise from claims that Franco was involved with a minor, whose mother is also facing similar accusations. The prosecutors have requested an $86,000 bond for Franco and have asked that his movements be restricted to the Dominican Republic, and for him to be placed under home confinement. It has been suggested that the money laundering charges are related to payments Franco allegedly made to the minor's mother.

Franco could be released on bond, temporarily arrested, prohibited from leaving the Dominican Republic, or ordered to make regular appearances until the investigation or trial is concluded. ESPN reported last week that Franco faces "legal action" from at least two individuals. A third person has accused Franco of misconduct but hasn't yet pursued legal action. Investigations into these allegations by Dominican authorities and MLB are ongoing. Franco reportedly recently switched lawyers.

Despite not playing in a game since August 12, Franco, 22, continued to receive his salary for the remainder of the season after being first accused of inappropriate conduct on social media in August. The Rays activated him to the 40 player roster at the beginning of the offseason, which was essentially a procedural move. The team expressed support for the league's investigation in a statement made in August, stating that they refrain from further comments out of respect for all parties involved. Franco extended his contract with the Rays for 11 years worth $182 million in November 2021 and was named an All-Star in the last season.