Dominican Prosecutors Seek Five-Year Sentence for MLB Player Wander Franco

Dominican prosecutors are pursuing a five-year prison sentence for Tampa Bay Rays player Wander Franco, who faces charges of sexual abuse involving a 14-year-old girl. This announcement was made during a court hearing on June 23, 2025, where prosecutors presented evidence suggesting that Franco engaged in a relationship with the minor over a four-month period, during which he allegedly transferred significant amounts of money to the girl's mother in exchange for her consent to the illicit relationship.

Prosecutor José Martínez, leading the case, stated, "We are requesting a five-year prison sentence for the proven crime of sexual abuse against a minor." Additionally, the prosecution is seeking a 10-year sentence for the minor's mother, whom they accuse of sexually trafficking her daughter. Prosecutors claim that during raids on the mother’s residence, they uncovered substantial cash amounts—$68,500 and $35,000—which they allege were payments made by Franco.

The gravity of these allegations and the potential legal consequences have significant implications for Franco, who was in the midst of his third Major League Baseball (MLB) season when he was suspended in August 2023. Franco had signed an 11-year, $182 million contract with the Rays in November 2021 but has since been placed on MLB's restricted list following the allegations.

The legal proceedings have drawn considerable attention, not only due to Franco's status as a professional athlete but also because of the sensitive nature of the allegations involving a minor. During the hearing, one of Franco's attorneys, Irina Ventura, posited that the evidence presented by the prosecution was ambiguous, questioning whether Franco was an accomplice to the mother or the primary perpetrator in a conspiracy. Ventura stated, "What is Wander? Is he an accomplice of Vanessa or is he the material author of the criminal conspiracy offense?"

Franco's defense team is advocating for the dismissal of the case, arguing that the evidence does not sufficiently support the charges. Documents previously presented to the court, which were reviewed by the Associated Press, indicate that Franco's mother, Yudelka Aybar, transferred 1 million pesos (approximately $17,000) to the minor's mother on January 5, 2023, purportedly to facilitate the abuse.

The case highlights the broader issues of sexual abuse and exploitation, particularly concerning minors. According to Dr. Maria Gonzalez, a professor of sociology at the University of Santo Domingo, the situation underscores the urgent need for legal reforms in protecting minors from sexual exploitation. Dr. Gonzalez commented, "This case not only raises questions about individual accountability but also reflects systemic issues that allow such abuses to occur."

The implications of this case extend beyond legal ramifications for Franco and the involved parties. The incident raises critical discussions regarding the responsibilities of public figures, the legal system's role in safeguarding minors, and the societal attitudes toward sexual abuse. As the court proceedings continue, many observers are keenly watching how this high-profile case unfolds.

Looking forward, the outcome of this trial could have lasting impacts not only on Franco's career but also on MLB's handling of similar allegations in the future. Industry experts predict that this case may prompt MLB to re-evaluate its policies on player conduct and allegations of misconduct, particularly those involving minors. The situation is evolving, and further updates will be crucial as the legal process continues to develop.