A 21-year-old Jonesboro man has been arrested and is being held on a $150,000 bond after a father reported discovering him with his 13-year-old daughter.
Jamarion Antwun Franklin is facing allegations of rape/sexual intercourse with a person less than 14 years of age, a Class Y felony under Arkansas law, according to court filings.
The incident occurred on Aug. 8 when the victim’s father contacted the Jonesboro Police Department. The father reported catching his daughter with Franklin and followed the vehicle Franklin was driving to obtain a license plate number. Records show the vehicle’s registration returned to Franklin.
During a subsequent interview with a detective from the Crimes Against Children Division, the 13-year-old told investigators that a friend had introduced her to Franklin. She disclosed that their communication took place on Snapchat, and said she initially believed Franklin to be 17 years old.
The victim stated that Franklin picked her up, and they drove around before stopping on the side of the road. They then moved to the back seat of the vehicle. According to the detective’s affidavit, the victim said her father arrived at that moment and interrupted the situation.
Detective Adam Hampton reported, "The victim then stated that her dad pulled up and caught them. Jamarion Franklin got back into the driver’s seat and took off, and her dad chased them. She was dropped off at Sonic by Franklin."
The victim later identified Franklin from a photograph, according to investigators.
Franklin was arrested and is currently being held in the Craighead County Detention Center. He is scheduled for arraignment on Sept. 30. A no-contact order has also been issued, prohibiting Franklin from any contact with the victim if he is released from custody.
This case remains under investigation by authorities at this time.