Dominican Republic— Wander Franco, Tampa Bay Rays shortstop, was detained Monday in the Dominican Republic after being examined by authorities investigating a possible contact with a juvenile, according to a Puerto Plata province prosecutor.
An official told The Associated Press that Franco and two attorneys came before prosecutors days after missing a meeting with prosecutor Olga Diná Llaverías
The official spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not allowed to discuss the case. The official stated the session lasted over three hours.
Franco was initially summoned by Llaverías on December 28, after prosecutors and police visited his hometown of Baní, 37 miles (60 kilometers) southwest of the city, to urge his attendance. They didn't find the 22-year-old player.
The case concerns a kid, therefore authorities have revealed little details.
According to Dominican law, Franco must be tried within 24 hours. Franco's U.S. attorney, Jay Reisinger, denied comment. Franco's Dominican Republic attorneys were unreachable by the AP.
On Aug. 14, Dominican Republic authorities informed Franco that he was under investigation for social media posts alleging a connection with a juvenile. The claimed posts are unverified by the AP.
MLB placed Franco on administrative leave in August under its domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policies with the players' association. He was compensated and got service time on administrative leave. MLB's review to determine sanctions has no timeline.