Baton Rouge Pair Pleads Not Guilty in Murder Case
Hope Jackson and Riddick Franklin face murder charges following the March 22 death of Anthony Wesley Jr.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Violence
Hope Jackson has entered a not guilty plea regarding the March 22 death of Anthony Wesley Jr. Both Jackson and Riddick Franklin are currently facing charges of second-degree murder and obstruction of justice.
Why it matters
The legal proceedings stem from a dispute over child support, as prosecutors allege Jackson pressured Franklin to kill Wesley prior to an upcoming court date.
Hope Jackson and Riddick Franklin face formal charges of second-degree murder and obstruction of justice in Baton Rouge. Franklin is additionally charged with illegal use of a weapon and illegal possession of a firearm.
The players
Hope Jackson
The defendant is facing second-degree murder charges and is accused of pressuring a co-defendant to commit the act.
Riddick Franklin
The defendant is charged with second-degree murder, obstruction of justice, and multiple firearm-related offenses.
Anthony Wesley Jr.
The victim was involved in a legal dispute over child support and custody before his death.
The details
Authorities claim Riddick Franklin waited in a parking lot for hours to target Anthony Wesley Jr. before the fatal shooting occurred. The victim had filed a petition for child support and custody shortly before his death.
Timeline
March 22: Riddick Franklin shot and killed Anthony Wesley Jr.
August: Hope Jackson pleaded not guilty to charges.
Legal Context
This case proceeds under Louisiana second-degree murder sentencing guidelines, which dictate the statutory penalties for the crimes alleged. The legal proceedings in Baton Rouge follow strict state mandates regarding murder and obstruction charges.
The case highlights concerns regarding local safety and the outcomes of domestic disputes that escalate into criminal acts. Residents may monitor court dockets for future updates on trial schedules and subsequent legal hearings.
The takeaway
This case serves as a somber reminder of the potential for child support disputes to escalate into violence. Legal experts advise individuals involved in custody conflicts to utilize established mediation channels to ensure personal safety.
Further reading
For more information on local legal proceedings, visit the Baton Rouge Violence section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WBRZ.
