Attorney General Chris Carr announced the expansion of his Gang Prosecution Unit to Southeast Georgia. Assistant Attorney General Brooklyn Franklin and Criminal Investigator Pete Delatorre will oversee the unit's regional efforts, effective July 1, 2024. The expansion is funded by the state’s FY 2025 budget, signed by Governor Brian Kemp in May.
Franklin previously served as Solicitor General of Long County, while Delatorre was an officer with the Richmond Hill Police Department. Carr emphasized the impact of the statewide Gang Prosecution Unit since its inception in July 2022, noting its success in removing fentanyl from streets and securing justice for families affected by gang violence.
“Since creating Georgia’s first statewide Gang Prosecution Unit, we have removed massive amounts of fentanyl from our streets and secured justice for families who have lost a loved one due to gang violence,” said Carr. “With this most recent expansion, we’re able to strengthen our efforts and serve as a force multiplier by working hand-in-hand with all levels of law enforcement to combat violent crime and keep Georgians safe.”
Senate Appropriations Chairman Blake Tillery highlighted the significance of addressing gang-related crimes: “It’s no secret a disproportionate amount of the crime affecting our community is gang-related. Investigation and prosecution of these crimes take a disproportionate share of community resources."
Middle Judicial Circuit District Attorney Tripp Fitzner expressed gratitude for Carr's leadership: “Solving the gang problem must be a team effort between state and local law enforcement and prosecutors. I look forward to working with the Attorney General’s Office on our shared mission of keeping our streets safe and free from violent gang activity.”
The Gang Prosecution Unit has achieved over 40 convictions and indicted nearly 140 individuals across multiple counties since its establishment. The unit now has regional prosecutors and investigators in Atlanta, Albany, Augusta, Macon, Columbus, and Southeast Georgia.
Brooklyn Franklin brings experience as Solicitor General of Long County and various legal roles within Kentucky's judicial system. She holds degrees from Campbellsville University and Northern Kentucky University's Salmon P. Chase College of Law.
Pete Delatorre is a U.S. Army veteran with extensive law enforcement experience. He played a significant role in "Operation Patronus," leading to the largest motorcycle gang indictment in state history.