Rays star Wander Franco's legal troubles mount as he faces gun charge amid ongoing minor sexual exploitation case

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco is currently on trial over charges of sexual abuse and manipulation. Franco was, however, charged on Sunday in a separate case for illegal possession of a firearm in his native Dominican Republic.

The additional charge stemmed from a Nov. 10, 2024, arrest that involved the former Tampa Bay star in San Juan de la Maguana. During the incident, Franco, along with an acquaintance, was detained following a scuffle with another unnamed party. It was reported that guns were drawn, leading to the apprehension.

The Glock 19 found in Franco's vehicle was registered to the shortstop's uncle, Antonio Garcia Lorenzo. Although the firearm was licensed, the prosecutors in the case petitioned that the former MLB All-Star stand trial.

Franco last played in the 2023 MLB season. He was initially placed on the restricted list on Aug. 13 after an investigation began into an alleged relationship with a minor. The Rays shortstop was reinstated in September and finished the campaign before being barred from the league ahead of the 2024 season.

Rays star Wander Franco's trial finally commences

Wander Franco's trial concerning charges of sexual abuse of a minor, sexual and commercial exploitation against a minor, and human trafficking commenced last week.

The trial was originally scheduled on Dec. 12, 2024, but was delayed until June 2.

The former baseball star was formally charged in July 2024 after allegations of a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl. Franco, then 21 years of age, was also charged with human trafficking as the mother of the girl reportedly had knowledge of the link between the two.

In September, Judge Pascual Valenzuela of the northern Dominican province of Puerto Plata decreed that the evidence against the Rays star was sufficient and the case should move to a trial.

If proven guilty, Franco could face up to 30 years in prison.

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