On January 30, 2025, a Tarrant County jury found 32-year-old Shanay Annette Franklin guilty of murder in the death of 14-month-old Journee Denise Clark. Franklin was sentenced to 23 years in prison.
The case originated from a 2021 incident while Franklin was babysitting Journee. The child suffered serious injuries and died on February 14, 2021. An autopsy revealed multiple hemorrhages caused by blunt force trauma to the head.
During the legal proceedings, prosecutors presented evidence that Franklin violated her bond multiple times by continuing to be around children and consuming illegal substances.
The Fort Worth Police Department investigated the case. Prosecutors Charlie Boulware and Marina Thomas handled the trial, with DA investigator Matt Hardy assisting.
