Washington Government Negligence

The foster parents responsible for the tragic death of 15-year-old Karreon Franks have been sentenced to decades in prison, marking a significant development in the case that has drawn widespread attention across Washington state.

A Clark County Superior Court judge sentenced Felicia Adams (54) to 35 years in prison and Jesse Franks (58) to 30 years for their roles in Karreon’s death. The sentencing follows their October 2023 convictions for homicide by abuse and second-degree murder, as well as two counts of second-degree criminal mistreatment involving Karreon’s younger brothers. The second-degree murder conviction was vacated at sentencing to avoid double jeopardy.

Details of Karreon Franks’ Death

Karreon Franks died on November 27, 2020 in Vancouver, Washington, after suffering prolonged starvation and neglect. According to the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office, his death was officially ruled a homicide caused by starvation.

Records revealed that his weight dropped from 115 pounds in July 2019 to just 61 pounds at the time of death. Karreon, who was autistic and partially blind, had been living with Adams and Franks since they adopted him in 2012. Evidence presented during trial showed that he was subjected to severe neglect, ultimately leading to his death.

Siblings’ Lifelong Trauma

Karreon’s younger brothers, who were also victims of mistreatment, appeared at the sentencing hearing via Zoom but declined to speak. Their foster mother addressed the court on their behalf, describing the profound and lasting trauma they have endured. She told the court that the damage inflicted on the boys is lifelong despite ongoing care and support.

Status of Ongoing Wrongful Death Lawsuit

While the criminal case has concluded, civil litigation is ongoing. Davis Law Group Personal Injury Lawyers represent Karreon Franks’ surviving siblings in a wrongful death claim against the Washington Department of Social & Health Services (DSHS) and the Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF).

Attorneys Chris Davis and Colin Hutchinson-Flaming say the DSHS and DCYF failed to properly investigate multiple reports of abuse and neglect, including allegations that the children were denied food and water as punishment. They claim the first complaint to DCYF was made approximately 2.5 years before Karreon’s death and that the agency failed to make meaningful contact during visits.

“Instead of making sure to contact the boy and get the boy immediate medical attention, the state sat on its hands, and essentially the boy died a week later from starvation,” said attorney Chris Davis.

Davis Law Group remains committed to advocating for the rights of Karreon’s surviving siblings and holding all responsible parties accountable.

Media Inquires

Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers founder and principal attorney Chris Davis can be reached for comment on this case through the media relations team. For media requests, please call the front desk at (206) 727-4000 or email us at media@davislawgroupseattle.com.

Contact an Experienced Seattle Wrongful Death Attorney

If or someone you know has lost a loved one due to negligence in Washington state and need legal assistance, contact Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyer at (206) 727-4000 and schedule a free consultation with a personal injury attorney today.