Roberta Franklin Out on Bond

Radio host out on bond

By Topher Sanders
Montgomery Advertiser


FRANKLIN

A Montgomery radio talk show host and civic activist is free on bond after her arrest last week for alleged fraudulent use of food stamps.

Roberta Franklin, host of the WAPZ-AM 1250's "The Morning Show," which airs Monday through Friday from 9 to 11 a.m., turned herself in to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office after a warrant was issued in her name for second-degree theft of property.

Franklin is accused of failing to report a drug conviction and continuing to receive food stamps.

Franklin was convicted in 2003 of possession of a controlled substance. A 1996 law prohibits individuals with drug convictions from receiving food stamps.

"I received a letter stating that I was overpaid $368," Franklin said. "They were aware of the drug convictions and I have letters to prove it. I also never got a chance to pay back the sum."

Franklin, who is free on $2,500 bond, said she hasn't done anything wrong.

"I don't feel like I've done anything wrong because they were aware of my drug convictions and made reductions in my monthly allotment because of it," Franklin said.

Franklin said that the welfare agency reduced her monthly allotments on several occasions, citing her drug conviction as the reason.

Franklin's radio show focuses on community issues and she often speaks on behalf of state prison inmates.

Since Franklin is currently on probation and theft of property is a felony, she possibly could face one to 10 years in prison and fines of up $5,000 if convicted, said Sheriff D.T. Marshall.

Montgomery attorney Frank Riggs will represent Franklin. No court dates have been set.

Roberta Franklin is a very good friend of mine who is harassed by the state of Alabama relentlessly. She and I have worked together on the Morning Show and various issues related to prison reform in Alabama. I love you Berta..Chin Up Sister...we'll kick their asses in court.