Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been formally charged with sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of a minor in the Dominican Republic. The announcement came from Puerto Plata District Office Prosecutor Kelmin Duncan and Attorney General’s Office spokesperson Nairobi Viloria. The formal accusation was filed on Tuesday, surpassing the initial deadline set for July 5.

Franco has been under investigation since July 10, 2023, following a complaint alleging that he had sexual relations with a 14-year-old girl. Initially accused of commercial sexual exploitation and money laundering on January 3, Franco faced revised charges of sexual and psychological abuse six days later, after further review by a Dominican judge.

A comprehensive 600-page document, details the evidence against Franco. It includes transcripts of interviews with the girl and her relatives, as well as messages exchanged between Franco and the minor. 

Jay Reisinger, Franco’s attorney based in the United States, declined to comment, noting that Franco had not received formal notification of any charges. 

As the investigation continues, Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association have extended Franco’s administrative leave through July 14. MLB has also launched a separate investigation into the matter, which will proceed following the resolution of the criminal case.

Franco, 23, signed an 11-year, $182 million contract extension with the Rays in November 2021, just 70 games into his major league career.