Franco was formally charged Tuesday in the Dominican Republic with sexual abuse and sexual exploitation against a minor and human trafficking, Juan Arturo Recio of ESPN.com.do reports.
Prior to the start of the regular season, the Rays placed Franco on administrative leave and later extended his stay until Sunday, but his term will likely be extended indefinitely once again while the legal process plays out. If convicted on the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation charge, Franco could face 1-to-5 years in prison, while the human trafficking charge carries a maximum 20-year sentence.