On September 29th, a shocking incident unfolded in Clayton County, Georgia, involving Felicia Franklin, then Vice Chair of the Clayton County Board of Commissioners. Police officers responded to a call at a local sports bar, finding Franklin lying unresponsive on the ground outside the establishment. Unable to communicate, Franklin was helped onto a nearby bench by officers.
Police officers helping an unresponsive woman outside a bar
Upon identifying Franklin, officers contacted emergency medical services (EMS). Witnesses recounted Franklin’s disoriented state, noting she had been staggering and unable to confirm if she had a safe ride home.
Concerned for her well-being, particularly after she fell off the bench, officers and witnesses agreed EMS evaluation was necessary.
A Chaotic Scene Unfolds
Franklin’s condition deteriorated upon EMS arrival. Despite their attempts to assess her condition, she remained incoherent, unable to answer basic questions, and fixated on getting a drink.
Paramedic attending to a woman on a stretcher
Her erratic behavior escalated as EMS prepared to transport her for further evaluation. Franklin’s cries for help turned into angry outbursts, accusing those around her of mistreatment. The situation intensified, requiring physical restraint on the gurney.
Throughout the ordeal, Franklin vehemently insisted someone had spiked her drink, a claim she would reiterate in subsequent interviews. However, investigators found no evidence to support this.
A Downward Spiral
Franklin’s behavior remained volatile throughout the ordeal. She verbally abused the EMTs, repeatedly demanding her friend’s presence and accusing the medical professionals of wrongdoing. Despite attempts to de-escalate the situation, her outbursts continued.
The situation culminated in a stern warning from an EMT, emphasizing the need for cooperation and an end to the abuse. Yet, Franklin’s verbal attacks persisted, culminating in demands to halt the ambulance until a specific EMT was removed.
Hospital Stay and Aftermath
Upon arriving at the hospital, Franklin’s behavior took another turn, transitioning from anger to tearful pleas for her mother. She expressed distrust in the hospital staff and desperately sought her mother’s presence.
Following her hospitalization, a sober Franklin recounted her version of events to the police. She attributed her behavior to a recent bout of bronchitis and medication, claiming a sudden loss of bodily function. While she acknowledged consuming alcohol, she maintained she had only a few drinks and dismissed the evidence presented by investigators showing a significantly higher consumption.
Legal Repercussions and Fallout
Franklin’s conduct, captured on multiple body cameras, sent shockwaves through Clayton County. Weeks after the incident, county officials voted to remove her from her position as Vice Chairwoman.
Unwilling to accept her dismissal, Franklin announced her intention to sue Clayton County for wrongful termination, alleging a conspiracy and set-up. She remains steadfast in her belief that her drinks were spiked, despite the lack of evidence.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of public intoxication and the importance of responsible alcohol consumption. The events that unfolded on that September night led to a dramatic fall from grace for Felicia Franklin, leaving behind a legacy marred by controversy.
