DATE: September 13, 2023

CASE: Tealow Franklin (Case #23FE005143)

PROSECUTOR: Deputy District Attorney Katherine Martin, Adult Sexual Assault Prosecution Unit

On September 12, 2023, Tealow Franklin was convicted by a jury of rape by force, assault with a deadly weapon, criminal threats and witness intimidation.  The jury also found true allegations that Franklin used a knife during the commission of the crimes, the crime involved great callousness, the victim was especially vulnerable and Franklin took advantage of a position of trust.

The victim was in her 60’s when she suffered a major medical event, which affected her memory, ability to process information and mobility. Franklin was aware of the victim’s condition when he went to her home on April 7, 2023. Once inside the home, Franklin took a knife from the kitchen, hit the victim in the head with the butt of the knife and dragged the victim into the bedroom. Franklin then raped the victim at knife point, while threatening to stab and kill her. Franklin also threatened to kill the victim if she called the police.  After the rape, the victim’s daughter texted her to check on her wellbeing. The victim disclosed the rape to her daughter, who then called the police.

Franklin faces a maximum sentence of 20 years and 4 months in state prison.  Sentencing is set for October 6, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in Department 24 before the Honorable Satnam Rattu.