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yesterday

Wander Franco Convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, Receives Suspended Sentence

The verdict leaves Franco on probation under a two-year suspended sentence, casts doubt on his $182 million contract, complicates his U.S. visa status, jeopardizes his MLB standing under the league’s abuse policy.

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Aug 11, 2023; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco (5) hits a walk off home run in the ninth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo
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Overview

  • Franco was found guilty on June 26 in the Dominican Republic of sexual relations with a 14-year-old and received a two-year suspended prison term contingent on strict probation conditions.
  • The victim’s mother, Martha Vanessa Chevalier Almonte, was convicted of sex trafficking her daughter and sentenced to 10 years behind bars.
  • Major League Baseball has maintained Franco on its restricted list since July 2024 and will conclude its probe under the joint domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy.
  • Tampa Bay holds grounds to seek termination or negotiate a buyout of Franco’s 11-year, $182 million contract based on his conviction for a crime involving moral turpitude.
  • An unrelated firearm charge for illegal possession of a Glock 19 remains pending, and a foreign criminal record may block Franco from obtaining a U.S. visa needed to resume his MLB career.