Franklin Scandal Lecture Notes

Introduction

• The scandal took place in Omaha, Nebraska, in the mid-1980s.
• Involved systemic sexual abuse and satanic worship.
• Centered around the Franklin Community Federal Credit Union.
• Lawrence E. King Jr. was the key figure.

Lawrence E. King Jr.

• Socialite with political connections.
• Embezzled over $39 million from Franklin Community Federal Credit Union.
• Involved in ritualized abuse, CST ceremonies, and political blackmail.
• Linked to prominent figures like Ronald Reagan and George Bush Sr.

Franklin Community Federal Credit Union

• Established in 1968 for the African-American community of North Omaha.
• King became manager in 1970.
• Expanded services included welfare check management.
• Became a Ponzi scheme under King.

Systemic Abuse Allegations

• Children named King as orchestrating abuse and rituals.
• Network of exploitation involving local and national figures.
• Initial reports were ignored or downplayed by authorities.

Key Allegations and Testimonies

• Nelly and Kimberly Webb: Provided testimony of forced attendance at adult parties.
• Shaunetta Moore: Claimed ritualistic abuse involving political figures.
• Rusty Nelson: Photographer involved in illicit child photography.
• Paul Bonacci and Alicia Owen: Provided crucial testimony about abuse and political figures.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

• Initial investigations faced obstruction; allegations ignored.
• Jerry Lowe and Gary Caradori led investigations.
• Evidence included videotaped testimonies and potential photographic proof.
• Caradori died in a plane crash under suspicious circumstances.

Political and Legal Outcomes

• Lawrence King convicted of financial crimes in 1991.
• Grand jury discredited child abuse claims, calling them a hoax.
• Alicia Owen and Paul Bonacci charged with perjury.
• Allegations of cover-up and intimidation by powerful figures.

Media and Public Response

• Public skepticism due to satanic panic era.
• "Conspiracy of Silence" documentary pulled before airing.
• Numerous suspicious deaths linked to the case.

Unresolved Questions and Legacy

• Many believe in a cover-up by powerful figures.
• Continued advocacy for victims and further investigation.
• The case highlights potential for institutional corruption and abuse of power.

Notable Facts

• The case remains controversial and largely unresolved.
• Numerous deaths of people involved are considered suspicious.
• The Franklin Scandal is a chilling reminder of potential institutional failures.