On Jan. 8, Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays was released from jail in the Dominican Republic after being granted conditional release from the judge presiding over his case, according to ESPN.
Franco, who was accompanied by supporters outside the courthouse, did not speak to reporters after the hearing, though during a bathroom break earlier he did say, “Everything is in God’s hands.” His father, also named Wander Franco, expressed relief, saying, “God is just.”
The ruling provided several options, including release on bond, temporary arrest, restrictions on leaving the country, or requiring periodic appearances as the investigation continues.
Prosecutors claim Franco sent monthly payments of $1,700 to the mother of the girl for seven months and bought her a car to facilitate the relationship. The minor’s 35-year-old mother, who was not named in order to protect her daughter’s privacy, faces similar accusations and was ordered house arrest during the investigation. She left the courtroom without commenting.
The girl had demanded media coverage of her relationship, citing dissatisfaction with her mother handling Franco’s money. Franco, responding in live video, alleged an extortion attempt.
Franco’s lawyers have not issued a detailed statement, but said their client was “doing fine.”
The investigation began in July, based on an anonymous tip that led prosecutors to scrutinize the reported relationship with a minor. The allegations include Franco taking the girl away from her home in December 2022 for a four-month relationship, with the consent of her mother.
Authorities raided the mother’s home in September, seizing $13,700 and $68,500 that had been hidden behind a frame. Another seizure was a guarantee certificate from a local bank for $36,000 related to the alleged exploitation. Franco’s mother, who is said to have sent money to the girl’s mother, has not been charged but was implicated for interference.
A small group of young Dominican players gathered outside the court to support Franco, displaying posters reading “Free Franco” and “We all are Franco.” The MLB’s
investigation continues, and Franco remains on administrative leave since August 22, 2023. He signed an 11-year, $182 million contract in 2021, with a $2 million annual salary for 2023 and 2024.RELATED CONTENT: Wander Franco On MLB’s Restricted List As Investigation Into Alleged Relationship With Minor Continues