Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, already on trial for charges including sexual abuse of a minor, was hit with an additional charge of illegal possession of a handgun on Sunday, according to prosecutors in the Dominican Republic.
According to a report from ESPN.com, the new charge stems from a November 10 altercation in a parking lot in San Juan de la Maguana, which led to Franco’s arrest. While no injuries were reported, authorities discovered a semiautomatic Glock 19 in Franco’s vehicle.
Prosecutors stated that the firearm was registered to Franco’s uncle.
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One of Franco’s lawyers, Antonio Garcia Lorenzo, had previously asserted that there was “nothing illegal about it” because the gun was licensed. Despite this, prosecutors have formally requested that Franco, 24, stand trial on the gun charge, according to the outlet.
This development comes as Franco’s trial for the alleged sexual abuse of a 14-year-old girl is already underway. RELATED: Tampa Bay Rays’ Wander Franco Arrested Again In Dominican Republic
In that case, he faces serious charges of sexual abuse of a minor, sexual and commercial exploitation against a minor, and human trafficking.
Prosecutors allege that Franco kidnapped the girl for sexual purposes and sent significant sums of money to her mother. If convicted on these charges, the shortstop could face up to 30 years in prison.
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