Grim Sleeper
Lonnie David Franklin Jr. (August 30, 1952 – March 28, 2020), better known by the nickname Grim Sleeper, was an American serial killer who was responsible for at least ten murders and one attempted murder in Los Angeles, California from 1984 to 2007. He was also convicted for rape and sexual violence. Franklin earned his nickname when he appeared to have taken a 14-year break from his crimes, from 1988 to 2002.
Grim Sleeper | |
|---|---|
Mugshot of Franklin taken on September 29, 1998 | |
| Born | Lonnie David Franklin Jr. August 30, 1952 Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Died | March 28, 2020 (aged 67) San Quentin State Prison, San Quentin, California, U.S. |
| Other names | Grim Sleeper 25 Auto Killer |
| Criminal status | Deceased |
| Children | 2 |
| Criminal penalty | Death |
| Details | |
| Victims | 10–25+ victims 1 known survivor |
Span of crimes | 1984–2007 |
| Country | United States |
| State(s) | California |
Date apprehended | July 7, 2010 |
In July 2010, Franklin was arrested as a suspect, and, after many delays, his trial began in February 2016. On May 5, 2016, the jury convicted him of killing nine women and one teenage girl. On June 6, 2016, the jury recommended the death penalty, and on August 10, 2016, the Los Angeles Superior Court sentenced him to death for each of the ten victims named in the verdict. On March 28, 2020, Franklin was found dead in his cell at San Quentin State Prison.