Introduction to the Trial
The trial of Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco started Monday in the Dominican Republic in a sexual abuse case involving a 14-year-old girl.
Franco told judges he wants justice to be done.
Charges Against Franco
Franco has been charged in the northern province of Puerto Plata with sexually abusing a minor, sexual and commercial exploitation against a minor, and human trafficking. Prosecutors introduced documents as pieces of evidence against the 24-year-old Franco during the first hearing, and added they will call at least seven witnesses in a trial that is expected to proceed on Thursday, Friday and next Monday.
Potential Sentencing
Franco heard the charges against him and could be sentenced to up to 30 years in jail. AP Photo/Ricardo Hernandez
Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco sits in court during his trial on charges of sexually abusing a minor, in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, on Monday, June 2, 2025.
“I heard all they said, but I wanted to say that justice must be done,” Franco told the judges.
Defense and Prosecution
Irina Ventura, one of Franco’s attorneys, said part of the evidence against her client is fraudulent and illegal. Teodosio Jaquez, another member of the player’s legal team, said that the underage girl denied having sexual relations with the player. Prosecutor Claudio Cordero said all the evidence “was obtained in a lawful manner, are self-sufficient and will lead to a conviction, which is sought by the prosecutor’s office.”
Background of the Case
Franco was having an All-Star season in 2023 before Dominican authorities began investigating allegations he had been in a relationship with a minor and paid her mother thousands of dollars for her consent. The trial was initially scheduled for Dec. 12, but it was postponed until June.
Expected Duration of the Trial
The trial could take up to eight months to conclude, based on the average duration of trials in the Dominican Republic.
Conclusion
The trial of Wander Franco marks a significant moment in the case against the Tampa Bay Rays shortstop. As the trial proceeds, it is crucial to follow the legal process and await the verdict. The case has already drawn significant attention, and its outcome will be closely watched.
FAQs
- Q: What are the charges against Wander Franco?
A: Franco has been charged with sexually abusing a minor, sexual and commercial exploitation against a minor, and human trafficking. - Q: What is the potential sentence Franco could face?
A: Franco could be sentenced to up to 30 years in jail. - Q: How long is the trial expected to last?
A: The trial could take up to eight months to conclude. - Q: What was the initial reaction of Franco to the charges?
A: Franco stated that he wants justice to be done.
