A Walker County man has been convicted on multiple charges involving the sexual abuse of child family members.

On May 19, a Walker County jury found James Franklin Frazier guilty of four counts of Aggravated Child Molestation, Aggravated Sodomy, and eighteen counts of Child Molestation following a two-day trial before Chief Judge Brian House.

According to the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, evidence presented at trial showed that Frazier used his position as a trusted family member to abuse three young girls over an extended period of their childhoods. Prosecutors said the victims were relatives who regularly spent time in Frazier’s home because of their close relationship with his then-wife.

During the trial, jurors heard testimony describing a pattern of manipulation and grooming. The victims testified that the abuse occurred over a period of years during overnight visits, movie nights, camping trips, and other situations where Frazier had isolated access to the children.

Authorities said the abuse was not reported to law enforcement until one victim reported it to a school official. Following that disclosure, the Walker County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation.

During the investigation, two additional victims disclosed abuse during forensic interviews conducted at the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit Children’s Advocacy Center.

Prosecutors also presented testimony from another young witness who described similar grooming behavior by Frazier, including gifts, special attention, and invitations to participate in activities such as camping and movie nights.

On May 27, Frazier was sentenced to life in prison, with the first 70 years to be served in the Georgia Department of Corrections.

The case was prosecuted by Chief Assistant District Attorney Lynsay Chapman, with assistance from victim advocates Amy Reed and Brittany Bruce, administrative staff member Crystal McNabb, and investigator Daniel Thacker.

Acting District Attorney Deanna Reisman praised the prosecution team following the conviction.

“This conviction is the result of dedication and perseverance by Chief ADA Chapman and her trial team,” Reisman said. “Her efforts ensured that the voices of multiple victims were heard and that the offender was held accountable. Our community is safer today because of her service.”