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16h ago

Wander Franco Found Guilty of Abusing 14-Year-Old, Receives Suspended Sentence

The verdict triggers an MLB disciplinary review, casting doubt on his ability to secure a U.S. work visa.

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, left, reacts after hearing his sentence during his trial on charges of sexual abuse of a minor, in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, Thursday, June 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Fran Afonso)
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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

Overview

  • A Dominican Republic court convicted 24-year-old Franco of sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl and imposed a two-year suspended prison term.
  • Judge Jakayra Veras García ordered Franco to refrain from approaching minors for sexual purposes as a condition of his probation.
  • The victim’s mother, Martha Vanessa Chevalier Almonte, was found guilty of sexually trafficking her daughter and received a ten-year prison sentence.
  • Franco remains on Major League Baseball’s restricted list while the league’s investigation under its domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy continues.
  • The Tampa Bay Rays may move to void or renegotiate his 11-year, $182 million contract amid concerns over his criminal record and visa eligibility.