Authorities raid two homes in search for Wander Franco after disturbing allegations

Authorities in the Dominican Republic searched two homes for Rays star Wander Franco amid allegations he had inappropriate relations with a minor, according to a local news report.

The Santo Domingo Prosecutor’s Office for Children and Adolescents searched Franco’s home as well as his mother’s on Tuesday, the Spanish language outlet Listin Diario reported.

Franco’s mother’s home is in Baní while Franco’s residence is located in Villa Real, the report said, adding that neighbors reported that authorities left messages with Franco’s wife.

Dominican investigators announced in late August they were looking into multiple claims against Franco.

Franco, 22, was placed on administrative leave by Major League Baseball “until further notice” in August after allegations were made that he had relationships with underage women.

“The administrative leave, effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy,” MLB said in the statement at the time.

“We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on Administration Leave,” the Rays added in a subsequent statement.

“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 last played for the Rays on Aug. 12.

According to the Tampa Bay Times, Franco appeared to deny the claims in an August Instagram Live video in Spanish.

“They say that I’m in public with a little girl, that I’m running around with a minor,” Franco said in August, according to the outlet.

“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.”