Franco

Justice Served: Ex-Officers Receive Lengthy Sentences for 2018 Assassination of Brazilian Councilwoman Marielle Franco

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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — In a significant sentence delivered on Thursday, two former police officers were convicted for the 2018 murder of Rio de Janeiro councilwoman Marielle Franco, a case that garnered international attention due to its political undertones and the brazenness of the crime. The court sentenced Ronnie Lessa to 79 years in prison, while his accomplice, Elcio de Queiroz, received a 59-year term for their roles in the execution-style killing. Marielle Franco, a rising political star and outspoken critic of police brutality, was assassinated on March 14, 2018, as she was returning … Read more

Rays Shortstop Wander Franco Released from Jail, Still Faces Serious Charges in Alleged Inappropriate Relationship with Minor

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Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – A judge has dismissed money laundering and sexual exploitation charges against Wander Franco, but the Tampa Bay Rays shortstop may still face counts of sexual and psychological abuse and abduction. The charges stem from an alleged inappropriate relationship with a 14-year-old. Franco, 22, was released from jail in the Dominican Republic on Monday after posting a financial guarantee of $34,000. This guarantee ensures that he will make monthly visits to the court for the next six months. If found guilty of the accusation of sexual abuse of a minor, Franco … Read more

MLB Star Wander Franco Faces Ruling on Disturbing Exploitation Allegations in Dominican Republic

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Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco is awaiting a ruling from a judge after being arrested in his native Dominican Republic. Prosecutors have presented evidence alleging that the MLB All-Star had a relationship with a 14-year-old girl and provided her mother with financial payments and a car in exchange for consent to the relationship. Charges against Franco include “commercial sexual exploitation” and money laundering. The options for Friday’s ruling include releasing the 22-year-old Franco on bond, temporarily arresting him, preventing him from leaving the Dominican Republic, or requiring regular appearances … Read more