Kristian John Franks, a North Yorkshire rapist with a substantial criminal history originating in his adolescence, was found guilty of rape on September 18, 2025, after a trial at York Crown Court.
The conviction arises from an event in which he purportedly raped a lady shortly after their initial meeting. This is a summary of his criminal history, culminating in the latest trial and its verdict.
Preliminary Criminal Record
Kristian John Franks initially attracted police attention as a minor. At the age of 13, he was found guilty of attacking a police officer while on official duty. In his adolescence, he perpetrated several vehicular offences, including reckless driving and unauthorised use of automobiles.
At the age of 19, Kristian John Franks commenced drug use and perpetrated his initial crime. At the age of 21, two years later, he was found guilty of burglary.
Increasing Criminal Behaviour in Adulthood
In 2016, Kristian John Franks subjected a former partner to harassment, leading to the issuance of a restraining order for her protection. He subsequently violated this order.
In 2019, he participated in a road rage incident by tailgating another car and, when confronted, asserted, “I can drive however I want; I don’t have insurance.” He endeavoured to mislead authorities over the incident, resulting in an eight-month incarceration for obstructing justice.
Despite completing this sentence, Kristian John Franks persisted in criminal behaviour, accruing convictions for drug driving, possession of burglary tools, and failure to appear on bail.
Previous Sexual Risk Considerations
In December 2023, following his acquittal for the rape of Leah Bedford, Kristian John Franks was imposed with a sexual risk order by York Magistrates’ Court. This civil injunction sought to limit the actions of individuals presenting a sexual threat to the public.
In January 2025, law enforcement made a public request for assistance in identifying him, thinking he had violated the restrictions of the order.
The 2025 Rape Allegation and Judicial Proceedings
In April 2025, Kristian John Franks was accused of raping a lady shortly after their initial encounter. He was released on bail to appear before York Crown Court.
Complications emerged in May 2025 when Kristian John Franks was apprehended at Fulford Road Police Station but subsequently evaded detention. He was subsequently captured and charged with escaping lawful custody. Subsequent to his failure to appear at a court hearing, he was apprehended under a warrant and detained in custody.
On July 18, 2025, Kristian John Franks acknowledged the escape charge.
The rape trial began on September 9, 2025, at York Crown Court. Following discussions, the jury rendered a guilty verdict for rape on September 18, 2025.
Kristian John Franks is set to be punished for the rape conviction and the escape from lawful custody on October 30, 2025.
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