Juan Arturo Recio, a Dominican attorney, has reported that the initial phase of the investigation involving Tampa Bay Rays’ All-Star shortstop, Wander Franco, and his alleged involvement with a minor is underway, with the potential for the process to extend over several months.

Recio, who also holds a position as a general editor at ESPN Deportes in the Dominican Republic, mentioned on Wednesday that securing legal representation for Franco, if he doesn’t already have one, would be advisable.

“It’s imperative to recognize that our legal framework does not permit consensual relationships between adults and minors. There are no mitigating circumstances,” explained Recio. He went on to mention that in Dominican law, such relationships are categorized as sexual abuse, irrespective of the minor’s consent.

The Dominican authorities handling the case have shared that they cannot disclose specifics while actively investigating, gathering evidence, and confirming various details. The Attorney General’s Office has appealed for patience from the public, explaining that revealing information prematurely could disrupt the ongoing process.

Under the provisions of Law 136-03 in the Dominican Republic, relationships between adults and minors under 18 are strictly prohibited. This law, which outlines regulations for safeguarding the rights of children and adolescents, mandates penalties ranging from two to five years of imprisonment and financial fines. Even if consent is given by the minor, such relationships are still regarded as sexual abuse.

As reported by El Nuevo Diario, a delegation from Major League Baseball journeyed to the Peravia province in the Dominican Republic as part of their inquiry. The National Agency for Boys, Girls, Adolescents, and the Family, along with the Gender Violence Unit, headed by Dominican judge Olga Diná Llaverías—an expert in child abuse cases—oversees the Franco investigation from this region.

Juan Arturo Recio noted that this incident is the first known case involving a Dominican baseball player and matters related to minors in a nation where baseball is the predominant sport. Often referred to as “pelota” in the Caribbean nation, baseball offers a path out of poverty and a chance for a brighter future.

Social media posts circulating on Sunday alleged that Franco was engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a minor in the Dominican Republic. The following day, Franco and the Rays came to a mutual decision for him to be placed on the restricted list for a minimum of one week, allowing him to “step away from the team” while Major League Baseball’s investigation continues. Depending on the investigation’s progress, this leave could be extended. Franco will continue to receive payment from the Rays during this period.

Opinions within the Dominican community differ; some believe the allegations against Franco are an attempt to extort a wealthy player, while others view him as guilty. However, one aspect remains consistent: baseball is rooted in conservative values and family-oriented principles.

ESPN Deportes reporter Enrique Rojas, a Dominican residing in Central Florida, stated, “Baseball, being both traditional and family-focused, rarely witnesses such controversies involving its players. Even in a relatively liberal society, there is a resolute stance against offenses connected to minors in sexual contexts.”

Since their inception in 1998, the Tampa Bay Rays have consistently incorporated Latino players into their roster. This practice aligns with signing substantial contracts, including Franco’s groundbreaking agreement—$182 million over 11 years, with the potential to reach $223 million over 12 years. This has caused dismay among Dominican fans in Tampa Bay.

Miguel Mieses, a devoted Rays fan and Dominican father from Riverview, expressed concern, saying, “The gravity of these allegations could significantly affect the trajectory of one of our most prominent players. I am hesitant to continue supporting him given the nature of these delicate accusations.”

Francisco Martinez, a Dominican residing in Tampa, suggested that Franco might not be entirely innocent and noted that some individuals might do anything for fame and money.

Wendy Dominguez of Seffner found it regrettable to see Franco embroiled in such a contentious situation, emphasizing that he should recognize the boundaries that should not be crossed.