Wander Franco did not show up for his 11 a.m. questioning Thursday after being summoned following allegations of inappropriate relations with underage girls, according to ESPN.
The Rays shortstop had been summoned to appear Thursday in Santo Domingo at the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for Children and Adolescents.
Franco dismissed his lawyers prior to his scheduled summoned time, according to The Associated Press.
Agency director Olga Dona Llaverias told reporters the investigation would continue.
“There are a few options in the investigative process, but now is not an opportune time to speak about that,” Diná Llaverías said, according to ESPN.
Before Franco no-showed his summoning, Dominican Republic authorities searched Franco’s home in Villa Real and his mother’s home in Bani on Tuesday, according to Dominican Republic outlet Listin Diario.
The authorities reportedly left messages with Franco’s wife.
Authorities are investigating complaints against Franco that he engaged in a relationship with minors.
A first complaint was filed July 17, according to ESPN, and a second formal complaint was later filed. A third relationship is being investigated, but there is no formal complaint.
The age of consent in the Dominican Republic is 18, and criminal charges can be levied against individuals who violate those laws.
Criminal charges have not been filed against the 22-year-old, per ESPN.
Major League Baseball placed Franco on administrative leave “until further notice” this past Aug. 22, and there are questions about whether he will ever play in the league again.
“We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on Administration Leave,” the Rays said in a statement regarding the decision.
“The Tampa Bay Rays are dedicated to upholding high standards of integrity both on and off the field. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our fans and supporters as this process unfolds.”
Franco appeared to deny the allegations on Instagram Live.
“They say that I’m in public with a little girl, that I’m running around with a minor,” Franco said in Spanish, as translated by the Tampa Bay Times.
“People don’t know what to do with their time. They don’t know what they’re talking about. That’s why I prefer to be on my side and not get involved with anybody … because people gossip and talk smack.”
The Rays signed Franco to an 11-year, $182 million extension in 2021, the largest contract ever handed out by the franchise.
https://nypost.com/2023/12/28/sports/wander-franco-no-shows-after-being-summoned-for-questioning/