Tampa Bay Rays' Wander Franco Faces Sexual Exploitation, Money Laundering Charges

Judge to Rule on Friday as MLB's Investigation Continues

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco is facing charges of commercial sexual exploitation and money laundering in the Dominican Republic.
Franco is accused of having a relationship with a minor and making payments to the minor's mother.
The judge is expected to rule on Franco's case on Friday, with options including releasing him on bond, temporarily arresting him, preventing him from leaving the Dominican Republic, or requiring occasional appearances until the investigation or trial has ended.
Franco was placed on administrative leave by Major League Baseball in August under its joint domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy with the players’ association.
There is no timetable for a conclusion of the MLB’s investigation and whether the results might lead to discipline by the organization.