On Monday, a Dominican judge ruled Wander Franco, Tampa Bay Rays shortstop, criminally responsible for sexual and psychological abuse of a minor but did not impose a sentence. Judge José Antonio Núñez declared Franco was victimized by extortion and blackmail from the minor’s mother, who received a 10-year prison sentence for trafficking her daughter.
Judge Núñez explained the decision: “It seems contradictory to declare criminal responsibility and, at the same time, exempt him from punishment. The court has granted Wander Franco a judicial pardon due to the particular circumstances that made him a material victim, but not a legal one.” The judge reasoned this decision was both “logical and legal.”
Franco, visibly emotional, shared gratitude, saying, “Thank God for everything,” as his family, including mother Nancy Aybar, surrounded him in court.
Franco was first arrested in January 2024 after allegations of a four-month relationship with a 14-year-old girl and transferring substantial sums to her mother ensued. Though initially accused of other severe charges such as human trafficking, previous trials found him not guilty of those charges.
Following Monday’s verdict, Franco left the courthouse in Puerto Plata with his lawyer, Teodosio Jáquez. He briefly addressed the media, expressing calmness and seeking continued support from his fans. Franco mentioned that his lawyers have communicated with the Rays organization on his behalf.
Major League Baseball responded with a statement, acknowledging the verdict and stating their investigation is forthcoming.
Lawyer Jáquez confirmed they await the full sentence, scheduled for June 16, which is expected to clarify the judicial pardon. “We don’t have the physical sentence in our hands,” Jáquez noted. “He was exempted from punishment because he was also a victim.”
Franco’s professional life, involving an 11-year, $182 million agreement with the Rays, faced turmoil since authorities’ investigation announcement in August 2023 when he was 22. Six months after arrest, Tampa Bay limited his status and ceased his administrative leave pay.
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