72-year-old Rhode Island man accused of disturbing crimes against 5-year-old he was living with

A Rhode Island man is facing some disturbing charges.

According to police, on Wednesday, members of the Cranston Police Department’s Special Victims Unit, with assistance from the Patrol Division, arrested 72-year-old Franklin Brooks Sr., of Maple Street, Cranston, following an extensive investigation into allegations of child sexual abuse.

The investigation began in January 2026 after authorities received allegations involving the sexual abuse of a 5-year-old female child. Detectives identified Brooks as the suspect. The child was known to Brooks and was residing at the Maple Street residence at the time the alleged offenses occurred.

SVU detectives conducted a comprehensive investigation in coordination with the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families and with assistance from the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office. As a result of the investigation, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Brooks.

On Wednesday, SVU detectives and patrol officers executed arrest and search warrants at Brooks’ residence on Maple Street. Brooks was taken into custody without incident.

Brooks has been charged with:

• Two counts of First-Degree Child Molestation
• One count of Second-Degree Child Molestation
• One count of Violation of a Restraining Order

Following his arrest, Brooks was arraigned in Kent County District Court. He is currently being held without bail at the Adult Correctional Institutions pending further court proceedings.

“Cases involving the sexual abuse of children are among the most difficult and heartbreaking investigations our officers undertake,” said Chief Michael J. Winquist. “I am proud of the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by our Special Victims Unit throughout this lengthy investigation. We remain committed to seeking justice for victims and ensuring that individuals accused of exploiting children are held accountable through the criminal justice system.”

As this case involves a minor victim, no additional information regarding the victim was released.