Reginald Potts sentencing hearing continues in murder of Nailah Franklin

Karen Jordan Image
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Reginald Potts sentencing hearing
Hearings continued Wednesday in the sentencing of Reginald Potts, convicted of murdering Nailah Franklin.

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The sentencing hearing for Reginald Potts, convicted of murdering Nailah Franklin in 2007, continued Wednesday - highlighted by a four-page read by Franklin's younger brother describing the family's ongoing struggle with her loss.

John Ashton Allen was a senior in high school when his older sister, Franklin, went missing back in 2007.

"She was all of our favorite sibling, and we weren't afraid to voice it to each other," Allen said.

The now 25-year-old says her disappearance caused him to shut down and emotionally distance himself from his family.

"I reflect on the relationship I have with my siblings and am pleasantly surprised by the extent of which they have evolved. But alas, I regret that I will never be able to get to know Nailah this way," he said.

Allen read his victim impact statement, at times looking right at Potts, who was convicted in November of murdering Franklin. They had dated, then he began stalking her.

This is the third day of Potts' sentencing hearing.

"I still fear the possibility of him one day being free to walk the streets again," Allen said. "His presence poses a grave threat not only to my sisters - but all of the wives, sisters and daughters that the United States justice system serves to protect."

Potts faces up to life in prison.

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