Defendant Sentenced for Murder, Series of Attacks

DATE:  October 26, 2016

CASE:  Christopher Franklin (Case #15F06717)

PROSECUTOR:  Deputy District Attorney William Satchell, Homicide Unit

The Honorable Shelleyanne Chang sentenced Christopher Franklin to 75 years to life plus 10 years and 8 months in state prison.  On September 27, 2016, a jury convicted Franklin of first-degree murder, attempted murder, assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury, and illegal possession of a concealed firearm. The jury also found that Franklin discharged a firearm causing death and great bodily injury.

On July 10, 2015, Dennis Clark was homeless and sleeping under a bridge.  When Mr. Clark awoke, he found Franklin standing over him.  Without warning or provocation, Franklin began shooting at Mr. Clark, striking him four times.  Multiple .40 caliber casing were recovered at the scene.

On October 11, 2015, Anna Bernaix was sleeping near a homeless encampment when she was found shot to death. Several .40 caliber casings were also found at the scene.

On October 13, 2015, Douglas Bean was working as a surveyor near remote railroad tracks. Franklin approached Mr. Bean from behind and placed him in a strangle-hold.  Other workers witnessed what was happening and stopped Franklin just as Mr. Bean was losing consciousness.  The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department responded and apprehended Franklin.  Deputies searched Franklin and found a concealed .40 caliber handgun.  Testing by the District Attorney’s Crime Lab determined the handgun Franklin was carrying was used to shoot both Mr. Clark and Ms. Bernaix. 

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