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Grahame John Franks Facing 22 Charges After Griffith Court Appearance; Bail Refused

Back Country Bulletin

Krista Schade

19 February 2026, 4:53 AM

Grahame John Franks Facing 22 Charges After Griffith Court Appearance; Bail Refused

In Short

Expanded Charges: Grahame John Franks now faces a total of 22 charges, including child abuse material, bestiality, and unauthorised firearms.

Bail Refused: Appearing via video link in Griffith Local Court today, Franks was denied bail and will remain in custody.

Strict Restrictions: The court issued a Disassociate Order barring contact with victims or co-accused; the matter returns to court on March 5.



Hay man Grahame John Franks remains in custody following an appearance at the Griffith Local Court on February 19.

Appearing via video link before Magistrate Pauline Wright, Franks faced a significantly expanded list of charges.

Franks is now facing a total of 22 charges, an increase from the initial counts filed during his arrest in Hay last December.


The updated charge list includes:

  • Child Abuse Material: Multiple counts of production, possession, and dissemination.
  • Crimes Against Children: One count of procuring a child under 14 for unlawful sexual activity.
  • Bestiality: Possession and dissemination charges.
  • Firearms: Seven charges relating to the possession of unauthorised firearms and ammunition.


Magistrate Wright refused bail, and Franks will remain in custody. During the proceedings, the court also issued:

A Disassociate Order: Formally prohibiting Franks from contacting victims or any co-accused individuals.

ADVO Application: An application for an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order is currently pending.

The matter is scheduled for further mention on March 5, where the ADVO application will also be heard.


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