In Memoriam
JUSTIN RAY SULLIVAN
Sep 29, 1989 ~ Nov 11, 2017
Justin Ray Sullivan was born on September 29th, 1989 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Kenya Smith and Day Sullivan. He was raised in Midwest city, Oklahoma and Graduated from Star Spencer High School.
He recently received a certification in forklift operation and he was actively participating in T.E.E.M "The Education and Employment Ministry" employment program.
Justin was actively working on strengthening his relationship with the Lord. He was baptized at Shepherd's Fold Ministry by Pastor Steven G. Conley and was an active member. Justin loved the Lord and could always be found reading his bible.
Justin was a proud father to his three children Jaylen, Justin and Jaylee and considered them to be his biggest blessing in life and showed them unconditional love. He was loved by his family and friends.
Justin was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Inman and Verdell Sullivan.
He is survived by his maternal grandparents Michael and Brenda Brown, Grandfather Lonnie Smith (Barbie) Chessy Smith.
His mother, Kenya Smith and Father Day Sullivan. His Brother, Kellen Maurice (Renisha) and Sister, Dayla Sullivan.
His Sons, Jaylen and Justin his Daughter, Jaylee Sullivan.
His Maternal Aunt, Nicole (Kenric) Watson, Uncle, Michael Brown, Jr., Aunt Michelle (Tommie) Parker, Aunt, Cory (Tarik) Adkins, and Aunt Christina Smith. A host of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and friends.
There Is A Special Angel
There is a special Angel in Heaven
that is part of me.
It is not where I wanted him
but where God wanted him to be.
He was here but just a moment
like a night time shooting star.
And though he is in Heaven
he isn't very far.
He touched the heart of many
like only an Angel can do.
So I send this special message
to the Heaven up above.
Please take care of my Angel
and send him all my love.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
GUESTBOOK
04/05/2018 ~ Hallee
*I am so sorry for the familys loss, may you find comfort from the future promise recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:26 which says the last enemy, death, is to be brought to nothing.
11/27/2017 ~ Anthony Dumas
*Love you and miss you dearly lil bro you will always be remembered as a solid guy in my eyes now you up in heaven with our father. Rest easy lil bro- (no more pain) as pac would say love you bro bro
11/22/2017 ~ Dana White
*To The Family, my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear loved one. May you find comfort in God's word at Act's 24:15, a promise from our loving creator, Jehovah. Soon death will be no more, according to Rev.21:4. My thoughts and prayer are with you. Sincerely, Dana White
11/21/2017 ~ Sherita D.
*RIP Justin.. Praying for the family.
11/21/2017 ~ Quenton & Melanie Sayles
*To the Smith Family,
We prayed for Peace, Strength, and Healing for you all not just today but continuously. If you all need anything (whether its just be to talk) please do not hesitate to call.
Love The Sayles Family
11/21/2017 ~ Felicia
*Justin rest in peace!!! Kenya, Nicole, Dayla and Kellen I pray that the Lord give you Guys peace.
11/20/2017 ~ Temeca King
*Aunt Kenya I can't say I kno what ur goin thru, but I pray u find peace. Justin will be truly missed. Dayla Sweetie you Kno I'm here if you need me.. Sullivan family you all have my deepest condolences....
11/20/2017 ~ Cyneka
*U will be missed greatly and loved dearly, ur call home was too soon and no one was ready. I know u are in a better place than us right now so if anything save ur sis a spot too soon so until then hold her and watch over her. My condolences to family i love u guys and my prayers are with u.........Rest Easy
11/20/2017 ~ Faith Frazier
*Rest in Gods loving arms Justin and I pray your guardian angels wrap their arms around your family. Love you
11/20/2017 ~ Asheena Yarbrough
*Rest in heaven Justin you truely will be missed.
11/19/2017 ~ Nyrisha
*R.I.P . Praying for your family.
11/19/2017 ~ Brandy Smith (cousin)
*I promise not to let time space and life separate me from family again thank you cousin for being my life jacket and pulling me back in I miss and love you and promise to be here for our family anyway I can one last hug in Heaven from me to you rest well cousin see you when..........
11/19/2017 ~ Wayne Conley
*Lil Bro, its constantly said that you were trying to recover your life...I know you succeeding in doing this Bro.. Days of old left long ago..Im proud of the new you.. May God bless your family through this time... I Love you...
Big Bro
Wayne
11/19/2017 ~ Renee Vassar
*I never met you cousin but I know you came from a loving caring family. There is really no words just know that God got this & will walk with you all the way family. Praying for strength to carry you through. Love ya
11/19/2017 ~ Lee Smith
*You will greatly be missed great nephew and always be in our memories & hearts
11/19/2017 ~ Valerie
*Rest In Peace Justin. May our Lord comfort the family.
11/19/2017 ~ Harriet Mbroh-Snowden
*I pray for your peace during this most difficult time family. Rest In Peace sweet Justin.
11/19/2017 ~ Latavia Stewart
*To the Family... My prayers and love will continue. Rest in peace. We will miss you.
11/19/2017 -~Maurice Wilkins
*Love you lil cousin, heart is heavy and I haven't seen you since teen years. This tragedy is not how I wanted to be communicating with you. My thoughts and prayers for my OKC family. Strength is what's gonna pull you through. GOD BLESS
11/19/2017 ~ Qutessia brown
*Rip cousin
11/18/2017 ~ Dawn Hickman
*I love you all & Justin no words can take away the pain I see in your families heart & eyes. Just watch over us all & know you are truly loved. I love you niece, Dayla & know I'm here for you all
11/18/2017 ~ linda
*R.I.H God's Soilder u Will be truly Miss u Mite Be Gone But u Will never Ever be for Gotten
11/18/2017 ~ Tasha Dubose
*I love you and will miss you. You can rest now with no worry, gone to soon nephew
11/18/2017 ~ Chiquita
*Love you Justin..RIP...until we meet again...love Kita... praying for the family..
11/18/2017 ~ Michelle Williams
*Justin, rest peacefully knowing you are truly loved and will be tremendously missed.
Family, I wish I had words to take the pain away. I love you all.
11/18/2017 ~ Nick Watson
*Love you cousin rest easy
11/18/2017 ~ Melanie Moore
*I Love you to the moon and back always Chaboney (son/brother) ! There is a piece of my heart that will never whole again . You are with Jordyn now and I know your being well taken care of. I Love you both so much !
11/18/2017 ~ Kiara Hill
*Cousin you will forever live in my heart I love you and miss you
11/18/2017 ~ Cory Adkins
*You will always be in our hearts.
11/18/2017 ~ Nicole Watson
*Rest peacefully sweet heart.
This memorial provided by:
Pollard Funeral Homes, Inc
Oklahoma City, OK
FUNERAL HOME
Pollard Funeral Home
2626 N Post Road, Oklahoma City, OK
405-769-6719
SERVICES
November 21, 2017 11:00 AM
Meadowood Baptist Chruch
2816 Woodcrest Drive, Midwest City OK
* * * * * * * * * *
ARDMORE POLICE ID CAR FIRE VICTIMS; NEIGHBORS AFRAID
Posted: Nov 20, 2017 10:24 AM
Updated: Dec 04, 2017 10:25 AM
Two bodies were found inside this charred car in an Ardmore driveway. (KTEN)
Karlie Clearman was found dead in a burning vehicle in an Ardmore driveway on November 11. (Courtesy)
ARDMORE, Okla. -- Nine days after two people were found dead in a burning car, Ardmore police have released the identities of the victims.
They are 23-year-old Karlie Clearman of Ardmore and Justin Sullivan, 28, of Midwest City.
The two were inside a car that was fully engulfed in flames when police and fire personnel arrived at an address in the 700 block of Anderson Street SE on November 11.
Police on Monday said the deaths of Clearman and Sullivan were ruled a homicide and that the case remains under investigation.
But with no suspect named, neighbors say they are scared in their own homes.
"I feel sad because I am afraid they are going to kill other people," one said.
Garrett is 11 years old and lives just two blocks away, He says he's now afraid to go outside.
"I was never scared until this happened," he said.
Another neighbor was unwilling to go on camera for fear of backlash.
"Somebody knows something," the neighbor said. "Ardmore might be a big town to some people. but there is somebody that knows everybody around here."
Funeral services for Karlie Clearman were set for 2 p.m. Friday at Griffin Hillcrest Funeral Home in Ardmore.
COMMENTS
by TaboolaSponsored LinksYou May Like
* * * * * * * *
ARDMORE BURNING CAR DEATH LINKED TO OKC HALFWAY HOUSE
Posted: Dec 04, 2017 4:16 PM
Updated: Dec 18, 2017 4:16 PM
Two bodies were found inside this charred car in an Ardmore driveway. (KTEN)
ARDMORE, Okla. -- There are new details about a double homicide investigation in Ardmore.
The charred remains of 23-year-old Karlie Clearman and Justin Sullivan, 28, were found in a burning car in the driveway of a home in the 700 block of Anderson Street SE on November 11.
Officials have been tight-lipped about the ongoing investigation, but the Oklahoma Department of Corrections released a statement on Monday that linked Sullivan to an Oklahoma City halfway house.
The DOC said it was terminating a contract with Catalyst Behavioral Services, which runs the halfway house, following an incident that preceded Sullivan's death.
In the statement, the DOC said:
Catalyst's count practices allowed Justin Sullivan ... to go missing November 11th. Ardmore police found Sullivan's charred remains in a burned vehicle 16 hours before Catalyst staff reported he was missing.
Ardmore police questioned the staff of the halfway house after Sullivan was identified.
"We had went up and interviewed several of the guards, and was advised by at least one of the guards that he basically had done bed checks and had been there throughout the night checking on him... which, you know, we found to be false," Ardmore police spokesman Capt. Keith Ingle said.
According to the DOC, Sullivan left Catalyst with Carton Franklin, another inmate. Franklin returned later that day without Sullivan.
But the next day, Franklin walked away again, and was arrested four days later in Tulsa for armed robbery.
DOC Director Joe Allbaugh said Monday that Catalyst Behavioral Services did not "conduct necessary functions effectively," including allowing inmates to come and go without accountability.
Ardmore police say the public has no reason for concern, even though they haven't yet named a suspect in the murder case.
"We are still following leads, and have several interviews left to conduct at this time," Ingle said.
The DOC said the other 106 inmates at Catalyst were being relocated to other halfway houses around the state.
The state paid Catalyst $32.50 per day for each of the 106 inmates that were housed at its Oklahoma City halfway house.
Telephone and email messages to Catalyst officials were not immediately returned.
* * * * * * * * *
FORMER OKLAHOMA HALFWAY HOUSE INMATE CHARGED IN ARDMORE DOUBLE HOMICIDE
By BRIANNA BAILEY| AUGUST 9, 2018
Accused murderer Carlton Franklin denied involvement in the killings in a jailhouse interview with the The Frontier earlier this year.
A former Oklahoma halfway house inmate has been charged in the deaths of a man and woman found shot to death inside a burning car in Ardmore.
In an exclusive jailhouse interview with The Frontier earlier this year, Carlton Franklin denied involvement in the slayings of Justin Ray Sullivan, 28, of Midwest City and Karlie Clearman, 23, of Ardmore.
On Thursday, The Carter County district attorney’s office charged Franklin, 32, with two counts of first-degree murder. Franklin is accused of shooting and killing Sullivan and Clearman with a .40-caliber firearm in November 2017.
At the time of the killings, Franklin and Sullivan were both AWOL from a Department of Corrections halfway house in Oklahoma City operated by the nonprofit Catalyst Behavioral Services. The state has since ended its contract with Catalyst for the facility after ongoing security problems there.
After Sullivan and Clearman’s deaths, Franklin returned to the Oklahoma City halfway house briefly before running away again and going on an alleged crime spree that included rape and armed robbery.
In March, Franklin was charged with first-degree rape in Oklahoma County. According to court records, Franklin allegedly raped a Del City woman at gunpoint four days after Sullivan and Clearman’s bodies were found in Ardmore.
The alleged rape was also first reported by The Frontier.
In an interview at the Tulsa county jail earlier this year, Franklin said he and Sullivan were able to leave the halfway house without being stopped by security on the night of Nov. 10, 2017 and walked to a couple of nearby clubs, where they ordered drinks.
Franklin spoke with The Frontier while being held on armed robbery and weapons charges in Tulsa County after he allegedly stole a man’s wallet at gunpoint.
Franklin said Sullivan had asked him to introduce him to some women. Franklin said he called Clearman to set her up with Sullivan.
The trio drove around the city for a while before Clearman dropped him off back at the halfway house and left, Franklin claims.
“We get in the car, and I’m really a third wheel,” Franklin said. “We drive for a little bit, and I’m like ‘just drop me off, I’ll call my girl. Whatever y’all are doing, go on and do that.’”
He said he called his girlfriend to pick him up after being dropped off.
Franklin told The Frontier he could not recall how long after 2 a.m. Clearman arrived at Catalyst to pick him and Sullivan up, approximately how long the three spent driving around Oklahoma City, or at what time Clearman dropped him off again at the halfway house. He said only that it was still dark outside when he was dropped off.
“We were both a little bit tipsy, so I’m not sure,” Franklin said. “I can’t recall.”
Later that morning, at 4:35 a.m., authorities discovered Clearman’s car on fire in the yard of an Ardmore home located about 103 miles away from the Catalyst halfway house — a drive of about 1 hour and 34 minutes, according to Google Maps.
JUSTIN RAY SULLIVAN
Sep 29, 1989 ~ Nov 11, 2017
Justin Ray Sullivan was born on September 29th, 1989 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Kenya Smith and Day Sullivan. He was raised in Midwest city, Oklahoma and Graduated from Star Spencer High School.
He recently received a certification in forklift operation and he was actively participating in T.E.E.M "The Education and Employment Ministry" employment program.
Justin was actively working on strengthening his relationship with the Lord. He was baptized at Shepherd's Fold Ministry by Pastor Steven G. Conley and was an active member. Justin loved the Lord and could always be found reading his bible.
Justin was a proud father to his three children Jaylen, Justin and Jaylee and considered them to be his biggest blessing in life and showed them unconditional love. He was loved by his family and friends.
Justin was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Inman and Verdell Sullivan.
He is survived by his maternal grandparents Michael and Brenda Brown, Grandfather Lonnie Smith (Barbie) Chessy Smith.
His mother, Kenya Smith and Father Day Sullivan. His Brother, Kellen Maurice (Renisha) and Sister, Dayla Sullivan.
His Sons, Jaylen and Justin his Daughter, Jaylee Sullivan.
His Maternal Aunt, Nicole (Kenric) Watson, Uncle, Michael Brown, Jr., Aunt Michelle (Tommie) Parker, Aunt, Cory (Tarik) Adkins, and Aunt Christina Smith. A host of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and friends.
There Is A Special Angel
There is a special Angel in Heaven
that is part of me.
It is not where I wanted him
but where God wanted him to be.
He was here but just a moment
like a night time shooting star.
And though he is in Heaven
he isn't very far.
He touched the heart of many
like only an Angel can do.
So I send this special message
to the Heaven up above.
Please take care of my Angel
and send him all my love.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
GUESTBOOK
04/05/2018 ~ Hallee
*I am so sorry for the familys loss, may you find comfort from the future promise recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:26 which says the last enemy, death, is to be brought to nothing.
11/27/2017 ~ Anthony Dumas
*Love you and miss you dearly lil bro you will always be remembered as a solid guy in my eyes now you up in heaven with our father. Rest easy lil bro- (no more pain) as pac would say love you bro bro
11/22/2017 ~ Dana White
*To The Family, my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear loved one. May you find comfort in God's word at Act's 24:15, a promise from our loving creator, Jehovah. Soon death will be no more, according to Rev.21:4. My thoughts and prayer are with you. Sincerely, Dana White
11/21/2017 ~ Sherita D.
*RIP Justin.. Praying for the family.
11/21/2017 ~ Quenton & Melanie Sayles
*To the Smith Family,
We prayed for Peace, Strength, and Healing for you all not just today but continuously. If you all need anything (whether its just be to talk) please do not hesitate to call.
Love The Sayles Family
11/21/2017 ~ Felicia
*Justin rest in peace!!! Kenya, Nicole, Dayla and Kellen I pray that the Lord give you Guys peace.
11/20/2017 ~ Temeca King
*Aunt Kenya I can't say I kno what ur goin thru, but I pray u find peace. Justin will be truly missed. Dayla Sweetie you Kno I'm here if you need me.. Sullivan family you all have my deepest condolences....
11/20/2017 ~ Cyneka
*U will be missed greatly and loved dearly, ur call home was too soon and no one was ready. I know u are in a better place than us right now so if anything save ur sis a spot too soon so until then hold her and watch over her. My condolences to family i love u guys and my prayers are with u.........Rest Easy
11/20/2017 ~ Faith Frazier
*Rest in Gods loving arms Justin and I pray your guardian angels wrap their arms around your family. Love you
11/20/2017 ~ Asheena Yarbrough
*Rest in heaven Justin you truely will be missed.
11/19/2017 ~ Nyrisha
*R.I.P . Praying for your family.
11/19/2017 ~ Brandy Smith (cousin)
*I promise not to let time space and life separate me from family again thank you cousin for being my life jacket and pulling me back in I miss and love you and promise to be here for our family anyway I can one last hug in Heaven from me to you rest well cousin see you when..........
11/19/2017 ~ Wayne Conley
*Lil Bro, its constantly said that you were trying to recover your life...I know you succeeding in doing this Bro.. Days of old left long ago..Im proud of the new you.. May God bless your family through this time... I Love you...
Big Bro
Wayne
11/19/2017 ~ Renee Vassar
*I never met you cousin but I know you came from a loving caring family. There is really no words just know that God got this & will walk with you all the way family. Praying for strength to carry you through. Love ya
11/19/2017 ~ Lee Smith
*You will greatly be missed great nephew and always be in our memories & hearts
11/19/2017 ~ Valerie
*Rest In Peace Justin. May our Lord comfort the family.
11/19/2017 ~ Harriet Mbroh-Snowden
*I pray for your peace during this most difficult time family. Rest In Peace sweet Justin.
11/19/2017 ~ Latavia Stewart
*To the Family... My prayers and love will continue. Rest in peace. We will miss you.
11/19/2017 -~Maurice Wilkins
*Love you lil cousin, heart is heavy and I haven't seen you since teen years. This tragedy is not how I wanted to be communicating with you. My thoughts and prayers for my OKC family. Strength is what's gonna pull you through. GOD BLESS
11/19/2017 ~ Qutessia brown
*Rip cousin
11/18/2017 ~ Dawn Hickman
*I love you all & Justin no words can take away the pain I see in your families heart & eyes. Just watch over us all & know you are truly loved. I love you niece, Dayla & know I'm here for you all
11/18/2017 ~ linda
*R.I.H God's Soilder u Will be truly Miss u Mite Be Gone But u Will never Ever be for Gotten
11/18/2017 ~ Tasha Dubose
*I love you and will miss you. You can rest now with no worry, gone to soon nephew
11/18/2017 ~ Chiquita
*Love you Justin..RIP...until we meet again...love Kita... praying for the family..
11/18/2017 ~ Michelle Williams
*Justin, rest peacefully knowing you are truly loved and will be tremendously missed.
Family, I wish I had words to take the pain away. I love you all.
11/18/2017 ~ Nick Watson
*Love you cousin rest easy
11/18/2017 ~ Melanie Moore
*I Love you to the moon and back always Chaboney (son/brother) ! There is a piece of my heart that will never whole again . You are with Jordyn now and I know your being well taken care of. I Love you both so much !
11/18/2017 ~ Kiara Hill
*Cousin you will forever live in my heart I love you and miss you
11/18/2017 ~ Cory Adkins
*You will always be in our hearts.
11/18/2017 ~ Nicole Watson
*Rest peacefully sweet heart.
This memorial provided by:
Pollard Funeral Homes, Inc
Oklahoma City, OK
FUNERAL HOME
Pollard Funeral Home
2626 N Post Road, Oklahoma City, OK
405-769-6719
SERVICES
November 21, 2017 11:00 AM
Meadowood Baptist Chruch
2816 Woodcrest Drive, Midwest City OK
* * * * * * * * * *
ARDMORE POLICE ID CAR FIRE VICTIMS; NEIGHBORS AFRAID
Posted: Nov 20, 2017 10:24 AM
Updated: Dec 04, 2017 10:25 AM
Two bodies were found inside this charred car in an Ardmore driveway. (KTEN)
Karlie Clearman was found dead in a burning vehicle in an Ardmore driveway on November 11. (Courtesy)
ARDMORE, Okla. -- Nine days after two people were found dead in a burning car, Ardmore police have released the identities of the victims.
They are 23-year-old Karlie Clearman of Ardmore and Justin Sullivan, 28, of Midwest City.
The two were inside a car that was fully engulfed in flames when police and fire personnel arrived at an address in the 700 block of Anderson Street SE on November 11.
Police on Monday said the deaths of Clearman and Sullivan were ruled a homicide and that the case remains under investigation.
But with no suspect named, neighbors say they are scared in their own homes.
"I feel sad because I am afraid they are going to kill other people," one said.
Garrett is 11 years old and lives just two blocks away, He says he's now afraid to go outside.
"I was never scared until this happened," he said.
Another neighbor was unwilling to go on camera for fear of backlash.
"Somebody knows something," the neighbor said. "Ardmore might be a big town to some people. but there is somebody that knows everybody around here."
Funeral services for Karlie Clearman were set for 2 p.m. Friday at Griffin Hillcrest Funeral Home in Ardmore.
COMMENTS
by TaboolaSponsored LinksYou May Like
* * * * * * * *
ARDMORE BURNING CAR DEATH LINKED TO OKC HALFWAY HOUSE
Posted: Dec 04, 2017 4:16 PM
Updated: Dec 18, 2017 4:16 PM
Two bodies were found inside this charred car in an Ardmore driveway. (KTEN)
ARDMORE, Okla. -- There are new details about a double homicide investigation in Ardmore.
The charred remains of 23-year-old Karlie Clearman and Justin Sullivan, 28, were found in a burning car in the driveway of a home in the 700 block of Anderson Street SE on November 11.
Officials have been tight-lipped about the ongoing investigation, but the Oklahoma Department of Corrections released a statement on Monday that linked Sullivan to an Oklahoma City halfway house.
The DOC said it was terminating a contract with Catalyst Behavioral Services, which runs the halfway house, following an incident that preceded Sullivan's death.
In the statement, the DOC said:
Catalyst's count practices allowed Justin Sullivan ... to go missing November 11th. Ardmore police found Sullivan's charred remains in a burned vehicle 16 hours before Catalyst staff reported he was missing.
Ardmore police questioned the staff of the halfway house after Sullivan was identified.
"We had went up and interviewed several of the guards, and was advised by at least one of the guards that he basically had done bed checks and had been there throughout the night checking on him... which, you know, we found to be false," Ardmore police spokesman Capt. Keith Ingle said.
According to the DOC, Sullivan left Catalyst with Carton Franklin, another inmate. Franklin returned later that day without Sullivan.
But the next day, Franklin walked away again, and was arrested four days later in Tulsa for armed robbery.
DOC Director Joe Allbaugh said Monday that Catalyst Behavioral Services did not "conduct necessary functions effectively," including allowing inmates to come and go without accountability.
Ardmore police say the public has no reason for concern, even though they haven't yet named a suspect in the murder case.
"We are still following leads, and have several interviews left to conduct at this time," Ingle said.
The DOC said the other 106 inmates at Catalyst were being relocated to other halfway houses around the state.
The state paid Catalyst $32.50 per day for each of the 106 inmates that were housed at its Oklahoma City halfway house.
Telephone and email messages to Catalyst officials were not immediately returned.
* * * * * * * * *
FORMER OKLAHOMA HALFWAY HOUSE INMATE CHARGED IN ARDMORE DOUBLE HOMICIDE
By BRIANNA BAILEY| AUGUST 9, 2018
Accused murderer Carlton Franklin denied involvement in the killings in a jailhouse interview with the The Frontier earlier this year.
A former Oklahoma halfway house inmate has been charged in the deaths of a man and woman found shot to death inside a burning car in Ardmore.
In an exclusive jailhouse interview with The Frontier earlier this year, Carlton Franklin denied involvement in the slayings of Justin Ray Sullivan, 28, of Midwest City and Karlie Clearman, 23, of Ardmore.
On Thursday, The Carter County district attorney’s office charged Franklin, 32, with two counts of first-degree murder. Franklin is accused of shooting and killing Sullivan and Clearman with a .40-caliber firearm in November 2017.
At the time of the killings, Franklin and Sullivan were both AWOL from a Department of Corrections halfway house in Oklahoma City operated by the nonprofit Catalyst Behavioral Services. The state has since ended its contract with Catalyst for the facility after ongoing security problems there.
After Sullivan and Clearman’s deaths, Franklin returned to the Oklahoma City halfway house briefly before running away again and going on an alleged crime spree that included rape and armed robbery.
In March, Franklin was charged with first-degree rape in Oklahoma County. According to court records, Franklin allegedly raped a Del City woman at gunpoint four days after Sullivan and Clearman’s bodies were found in Ardmore.
The alleged rape was also first reported by The Frontier.
In an interview at the Tulsa county jail earlier this year, Franklin said he and Sullivan were able to leave the halfway house without being stopped by security on the night of Nov. 10, 2017 and walked to a couple of nearby clubs, where they ordered drinks.
Franklin spoke with The Frontier while being held on armed robbery and weapons charges in Tulsa County after he allegedly stole a man’s wallet at gunpoint.
Franklin said Sullivan had asked him to introduce him to some women. Franklin said he called Clearman to set her up with Sullivan.
The trio drove around the city for a while before Clearman dropped him off back at the halfway house and left, Franklin claims.
“We get in the car, and I’m really a third wheel,” Franklin said. “We drive for a little bit, and I’m like ‘just drop me off, I’ll call my girl. Whatever y’all are doing, go on and do that.’”
He said he called his girlfriend to pick him up after being dropped off.
Franklin told The Frontier he could not recall how long after 2 a.m. Clearman arrived at Catalyst to pick him and Sullivan up, approximately how long the three spent driving around Oklahoma City, or at what time Clearman dropped him off again at the halfway house. He said only that it was still dark outside when he was dropped off.
“We were both a little bit tipsy, so I’m not sure,” Franklin said. “I can’t recall.”
Later that morning, at 4:35 a.m., authorities discovered Clearman’s car on fire in the yard of an Ardmore home located about 103 miles away from the Catalyst halfway house — a drive of about 1 hour and 34 minutes, according to Google Maps.
In Memoriam
JUSTIN RAY SULLIVAN
Sep 29, 1989 ~ Nov 11, 2017
Justin Ray Sullivan was born on September 29th, 1989 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Kenya Smith and Day Sullivan. He was raised in Midwest city, Oklahoma and Graduated from Star Spencer High School.
He recently received a certification in forklift operation and he was actively participating in T.E.E.M "The Education and Employment Ministry" employment program.
Justin was actively working on strengthening his relationship with the Lord. He was baptized at Shepherd's Fold Ministry by Pastor Steven G. Conley and was an active member. Justin loved the Lord and could always be found reading his bible.
Justin was a proud father to his three children Jaylen, Justin and Jaylee and considered them to be his biggest blessing in life and showed them unconditional love. He was loved by his family and friends.
Justin was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Inman and Verdell Sullivan.
He is survived by his maternal grandparents Michael and Brenda Brown, Grandfather Lonnie Smith (Barbie) Chessy Smith.
His mother, Kenya Smith and Father Day Sullivan. His Brother, Kellen Maurice (Renisha) and Sister, Dayla Sullivan.
His Sons, Jaylen and Justin his Daughter, Jaylee Sullivan.
His Maternal Aunt, Nicole (Kenric) Watson, Uncle, Michael Brown, Jr., Aunt Michelle (Tommie) Parker, Aunt, Cory (Tarik) Adkins, and Aunt Christina Smith. A host of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and friends.
There Is A Special Angel
There is a special Angel in Heaven
that is part of me.
It is not where I wanted him
but where God wanted him to be.
He was here but just a moment
like a night time shooting star.
And though he is in Heaven
he isn't very far.
He touched the heart of many
like only an Angel can do.
So I send this special message
to the Heaven up above.
Please take care of my Angel
and send him all my love.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
GUESTBOOK
04/05/2018 ~ Hallee
*I am so sorry for the familys loss, may you find comfort from the future promise recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:26 which says the last enemy, death, is to be brought to nothing.
11/27/2017 ~ Anthony Dumas
*Love you and miss you dearly lil bro you will always be remembered as a solid guy in my eyes now you up in heaven with our father. Rest easy lil bro- (no more pain) as pac would say love you bro bro
11/22/2017 ~ Dana White
*To The Family, my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear loved one. May you find comfort in God's word at Act's 24:15, a promise from our loving creator, Jehovah. Soon death will be no more, according to Rev.21:4. My thoughts and prayer are with you. Sincerely, Dana White
11/21/2017 ~ Sherita D.
*RIP Justin.. Praying for the family.
11/21/2017 ~ Quenton & Melanie Sayles
*To the Smith Family,
We prayed for Peace, Strength, and Healing for you all not just today but continuously. If you all need anything (whether its just be to talk) please do not hesitate to call.
Love The Sayles Family
11/21/2017 ~ Felicia
*Justin rest in peace!!! Kenya, Nicole, Dayla and Kellen I pray that the Lord give you Guys peace.
11/20/2017 ~ Temeca King
*Aunt Kenya I can't say I kno what ur goin thru, but I pray u find peace. Justin will be truly missed. Dayla Sweetie you Kno I'm here if you need me.. Sullivan family you all have my deepest condolences....
11/20/2017 ~ Cyneka
*U will be missed greatly and loved dearly, ur call home was too soon and no one was ready. I know u are in a better place than us right now so if anything save ur sis a spot too soon so until then hold her and watch over her. My condolences to family i love u guys and my prayers are with u.........Rest Easy
11/20/2017 ~ Faith Frazier
*Rest in Gods loving arms Justin and I pray your guardian angels wrap their arms around your family. Love you
11/20/2017 ~ Asheena Yarbrough
*Rest in heaven Justin you truely will be missed.
11/19/2017 ~ Nyrisha
*R.I.P . Praying for your family.
11/19/2017 ~ Brandy Smith (cousin)
*I promise not to let time space and life separate me from family again thank you cousin for being my life jacket and pulling me back in I miss and love you and promise to be here for our family anyway I can one last hug in Heaven from me to you rest well cousin see you when..........
11/19/2017 ~ Wayne Conley
*Lil Bro, its constantly said that you were trying to recover your life...I know you succeeding in doing this Bro.. Days of old left long ago..Im proud of the new you.. May God bless your family through this time... I Love you...
Big Bro
Wayne
11/19/2017 ~ Renee Vassar
*I never met you cousin but I know you came from a loving caring family. There is really no words just know that God got this & will walk with you all the way family. Praying for strength to carry you through. Love ya
11/19/2017 ~ Lee Smith
*You will greatly be missed great nephew and always be in our memories & hearts
11/19/2017 ~ Valerie
*Rest In Peace Justin. May our Lord comfort the family.
11/19/2017 ~ Harriet Mbroh-Snowden
*I pray for your peace during this most difficult time family. Rest In Peace sweet Justin.
11/19/2017 ~ Latavia Stewart
*To the Family... My prayers and love will continue. Rest in peace. We will miss you.
11/19/2017 -~Maurice Wilkins
*Love you lil cousin, heart is heavy and I haven't seen you since teen years. This tragedy is not how I wanted to be communicating with you. My thoughts and prayers for my OKC family. Strength is what's gonna pull you through. GOD BLESS
11/19/2017 ~ Qutessia brown
*Rip cousin
11/18/2017 ~ Dawn Hickman
*I love you all & Justin no words can take away the pain I see in your families heart & eyes. Just watch over us all & know you are truly loved. I love you niece, Dayla & know I'm here for you all
11/18/2017 ~ linda
*R.I.H God's Soilder u Will be truly Miss u Mite Be Gone But u Will never Ever be for Gotten
11/18/2017 ~ Tasha Dubose
*I love you and will miss you. You can rest now with no worry, gone to soon nephew
11/18/2017 ~ Chiquita
*Love you Justin..RIP...until we meet again...love Kita... praying for the family..
11/18/2017 ~ Michelle Williams
*Justin, rest peacefully knowing you are truly loved and will be tremendously missed.
Family, I wish I had words to take the pain away. I love you all.
11/18/2017 ~ Nick Watson
*Love you cousin rest easy
11/18/2017 ~ Melanie Moore
*I Love you to the moon and back always Chaboney (son/brother) ! There is a piece of my heart that will never whole again . You are with Jordyn now and I know your being well taken care of. I Love you both so much !
11/18/2017 ~ Kiara Hill
*Cousin you will forever live in my heart I love you and miss you
11/18/2017 ~ Cory Adkins
*You will always be in our hearts.
11/18/2017 ~ Nicole Watson
*Rest peacefully sweet heart.
This memorial provided by:
Pollard Funeral Homes, Inc
Oklahoma City, OK
FUNERAL HOME
Pollard Funeral Home
2626 N Post Road, Oklahoma City, OK
405-769-6719
SERVICES
November 21, 2017 11:00 AM
Meadowood Baptist Chruch
2816 Woodcrest Drive, Midwest City OK
* * * * * * * * * *
ARDMORE POLICE ID CAR FIRE VICTIMS; NEIGHBORS AFRAID
Posted: Nov 20, 2017 10:24 AM
Updated: Dec 04, 2017 10:25 AM
Two bodies were found inside this charred car in an Ardmore driveway. (KTEN)
Karlie Clearman was found dead in a burning vehicle in an Ardmore driveway on November 11. (Courtesy)
ARDMORE, Okla. -- Nine days after two people were found dead in a burning car, Ardmore police have released the identities of the victims.
They are 23-year-old Karlie Clearman of Ardmore and Justin Sullivan, 28, of Midwest City.
The two were inside a car that was fully engulfed in flames when police and fire personnel arrived at an address in the 700 block of Anderson Street SE on November 11.
Police on Monday said the deaths of Clearman and Sullivan were ruled a homicide and that the case remains under investigation.
But with no suspect named, neighbors say they are scared in their own homes.
"I feel sad because I am afraid they are going to kill other people," one said.
Garrett is 11 years old and lives just two blocks away, He says he's now afraid to go outside.
"I was never scared until this happened," he said.
Another neighbor was unwilling to go on camera for fear of backlash.
"Somebody knows something," the neighbor said. "Ardmore might be a big town to some people. but there is somebody that knows everybody around here."
Funeral services for Karlie Clearman were set for 2 p.m. Friday at Griffin Hillcrest Funeral Home in Ardmore.
COMMENTS
by TaboolaSponsored LinksYou May Like
* * * * * * * *
ARDMORE BURNING CAR DEATH LINKED TO OKC HALFWAY HOUSE
Posted: Dec 04, 2017 4:16 PM
Updated: Dec 18, 2017 4:16 PM
Two bodies were found inside this charred car in an Ardmore driveway. (KTEN)
ARDMORE, Okla. -- There are new details about a double homicide investigation in Ardmore.
The charred remains of 23-year-old Karlie Clearman and Justin Sullivan, 28, were found in a burning car in the driveway of a home in the 700 block of Anderson Street SE on November 11.
Officials have been tight-lipped about the ongoing investigation, but the Oklahoma Department of Corrections released a statement on Monday that linked Sullivan to an Oklahoma City halfway house.
The DOC said it was terminating a contract with Catalyst Behavioral Services, which runs the halfway house, following an incident that preceded Sullivan's death.
In the statement, the DOC said:
Catalyst's count practices allowed Justin Sullivan ... to go missing November 11th. Ardmore police found Sullivan's charred remains in a burned vehicle 16 hours before Catalyst staff reported he was missing.
Ardmore police questioned the staff of the halfway house after Sullivan was identified.
"We had went up and interviewed several of the guards, and was advised by at least one of the guards that he basically had done bed checks and had been there throughout the night checking on him... which, you know, we found to be false," Ardmore police spokesman Capt. Keith Ingle said.
According to the DOC, Sullivan left Catalyst with Carton Franklin, another inmate. Franklin returned later that day without Sullivan.
But the next day, Franklin walked away again, and was arrested four days later in Tulsa for armed robbery.
DOC Director Joe Allbaugh said Monday that Catalyst Behavioral Services did not "conduct necessary functions effectively," including allowing inmates to come and go without accountability.
Ardmore police say the public has no reason for concern, even though they haven't yet named a suspect in the murder case.
"We are still following leads, and have several interviews left to conduct at this time," Ingle said.
The DOC said the other 106 inmates at Catalyst were being relocated to other halfway houses around the state.
The state paid Catalyst $32.50 per day for each of the 106 inmates that were housed at its Oklahoma City halfway house.
Telephone and email messages to Catalyst officials were not immediately returned.
* * * * * * * * *
FORMER OKLAHOMA HALFWAY HOUSE INMATE CHARGED IN ARDMORE DOUBLE HOMICIDE
By BRIANNA BAILEY| AUGUST 9, 2018
Accused murderer Carlton Franklin denied involvement in the killings in a jailhouse interview with the The Frontier earlier this year.
A former Oklahoma halfway house inmate has been charged in the deaths of a man and woman found shot to death inside a burning car in Ardmore.
In an exclusive jailhouse interview with The Frontier earlier this year, Carlton Franklin denied involvement in the slayings of Justin Ray Sullivan, 28, of Midwest City and Karlie Clearman, 23, of Ardmore.
On Thursday, The Carter County district attorney’s office charged Franklin, 32, with two counts of first-degree murder. Franklin is accused of shooting and killing Sullivan and Clearman with a .40-caliber firearm in November 2017.
At the time of the killings, Franklin and Sullivan were both AWOL from a Department of Corrections halfway house in Oklahoma City operated by the nonprofit Catalyst Behavioral Services. The state has since ended its contract with Catalyst for the facility after ongoing security problems there.
After Sullivan and Clearman’s deaths, Franklin returned to the Oklahoma City halfway house briefly before running away again and going on an alleged crime spree that included rape and armed robbery.
In March, Franklin was charged with first-degree rape in Oklahoma County. According to court records, Franklin allegedly raped a Del City woman at gunpoint four days after Sullivan and Clearman’s bodies were found in Ardmore.
The alleged rape was also first reported by The Frontier.
In an interview at the Tulsa county jail earlier this year, Franklin said he and Sullivan were able to leave the halfway house without being stopped by security on the night of Nov. 10, 2017 and walked to a couple of nearby clubs, where they ordered drinks.
Franklin spoke with The Frontier while being held on armed robbery and weapons charges in Tulsa County after he allegedly stole a man’s wallet at gunpoint.
Franklin said Sullivan had asked him to introduce him to some women. Franklin said he called Clearman to set her up with Sullivan.
The trio drove around the city for a while before Clearman dropped him off back at the halfway house and left, Franklin claims.
“We get in the car, and I’m really a third wheel,” Franklin said. “We drive for a little bit, and I’m like ‘just drop me off, I’ll call my girl. Whatever y’all are doing, go on and do that.’”
He said he called his girlfriend to pick him up after being dropped off.
Franklin told The Frontier he could not recall how long after 2 a.m. Clearman arrived at Catalyst to pick him and Sullivan up, approximately how long the three spent driving around Oklahoma City, or at what time Clearman dropped him off again at the halfway house. He said only that it was still dark outside when he was dropped off.
“We were both a little bit tipsy, so I’m not sure,” Franklin said. “I can’t recall.”
Later that morning, at 4:35 a.m., authorities discovered Clearman’s car on fire in the yard of an Ardmore home located about 103 miles away from the Catalyst halfway house — a drive of about 1 hour and 34 minutes, according to Google Maps.
JUSTIN RAY SULLIVAN
Sep 29, 1989 ~ Nov 11, 2017
Justin Ray Sullivan was born on September 29th, 1989 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Kenya Smith and Day Sullivan. He was raised in Midwest city, Oklahoma and Graduated from Star Spencer High School.
He recently received a certification in forklift operation and he was actively participating in T.E.E.M "The Education and Employment Ministry" employment program.
Justin was actively working on strengthening his relationship with the Lord. He was baptized at Shepherd's Fold Ministry by Pastor Steven G. Conley and was an active member. Justin loved the Lord and could always be found reading his bible.
Justin was a proud father to his three children Jaylen, Justin and Jaylee and considered them to be his biggest blessing in life and showed them unconditional love. He was loved by his family and friends.
Justin was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Inman and Verdell Sullivan.
He is survived by his maternal grandparents Michael and Brenda Brown, Grandfather Lonnie Smith (Barbie) Chessy Smith.
His mother, Kenya Smith and Father Day Sullivan. His Brother, Kellen Maurice (Renisha) and Sister, Dayla Sullivan.
His Sons, Jaylen and Justin his Daughter, Jaylee Sullivan.
His Maternal Aunt, Nicole (Kenric) Watson, Uncle, Michael Brown, Jr., Aunt Michelle (Tommie) Parker, Aunt, Cory (Tarik) Adkins, and Aunt Christina Smith. A host of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and friends.
There Is A Special Angel
There is a special Angel in Heaven
that is part of me.
It is not where I wanted him
but where God wanted him to be.
He was here but just a moment
like a night time shooting star.
And though he is in Heaven
he isn't very far.
He touched the heart of many
like only an Angel can do.
So I send this special message
to the Heaven up above.
Please take care of my Angel
and send him all my love.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
GUESTBOOK
04/05/2018 ~ Hallee
*I am so sorry for the familys loss, may you find comfort from the future promise recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:26 which says the last enemy, death, is to be brought to nothing.
11/27/2017 ~ Anthony Dumas
*Love you and miss you dearly lil bro you will always be remembered as a solid guy in my eyes now you up in heaven with our father. Rest easy lil bro- (no more pain) as pac would say love you bro bro
11/22/2017 ~ Dana White
*To The Family, my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear loved one. May you find comfort in God's word at Act's 24:15, a promise from our loving creator, Jehovah. Soon death will be no more, according to Rev.21:4. My thoughts and prayer are with you. Sincerely, Dana White
11/21/2017 ~ Sherita D.
*RIP Justin.. Praying for the family.
11/21/2017 ~ Quenton & Melanie Sayles
*To the Smith Family,
We prayed for Peace, Strength, and Healing for you all not just today but continuously. If you all need anything (whether its just be to talk) please do not hesitate to call.
Love The Sayles Family
11/21/2017 ~ Felicia
*Justin rest in peace!!! Kenya, Nicole, Dayla and Kellen I pray that the Lord give you Guys peace.
11/20/2017 ~ Temeca King
*Aunt Kenya I can't say I kno what ur goin thru, but I pray u find peace. Justin will be truly missed. Dayla Sweetie you Kno I'm here if you need me.. Sullivan family you all have my deepest condolences....
11/20/2017 ~ Cyneka
*U will be missed greatly and loved dearly, ur call home was too soon and no one was ready. I know u are in a better place than us right now so if anything save ur sis a spot too soon so until then hold her and watch over her. My condolences to family i love u guys and my prayers are with u.........Rest Easy
11/20/2017 ~ Faith Frazier
*Rest in Gods loving arms Justin and I pray your guardian angels wrap their arms around your family. Love you
11/20/2017 ~ Asheena Yarbrough
*Rest in heaven Justin you truely will be missed.
11/19/2017 ~ Nyrisha
*R.I.P . Praying for your family.
11/19/2017 ~ Brandy Smith (cousin)
*I promise not to let time space and life separate me from family again thank you cousin for being my life jacket and pulling me back in I miss and love you and promise to be here for our family anyway I can one last hug in Heaven from me to you rest well cousin see you when..........
11/19/2017 ~ Wayne Conley
*Lil Bro, its constantly said that you were trying to recover your life...I know you succeeding in doing this Bro.. Days of old left long ago..Im proud of the new you.. May God bless your family through this time... I Love you...
Big Bro
Wayne
11/19/2017 ~ Renee Vassar
*I never met you cousin but I know you came from a loving caring family. There is really no words just know that God got this & will walk with you all the way family. Praying for strength to carry you through. Love ya
11/19/2017 ~ Lee Smith
*You will greatly be missed great nephew and always be in our memories & hearts
11/19/2017 ~ Valerie
*Rest In Peace Justin. May our Lord comfort the family.
11/19/2017 ~ Harriet Mbroh-Snowden
*I pray for your peace during this most difficult time family. Rest In Peace sweet Justin.
11/19/2017 ~ Latavia Stewart
*To the Family... My prayers and love will continue. Rest in peace. We will miss you.
11/19/2017 -~Maurice Wilkins
*Love you lil cousin, heart is heavy and I haven't seen you since teen years. This tragedy is not how I wanted to be communicating with you. My thoughts and prayers for my OKC family. Strength is what's gonna pull you through. GOD BLESS
11/19/2017 ~ Qutessia brown
*Rip cousin
11/18/2017 ~ Dawn Hickman
*I love you all & Justin no words can take away the pain I see in your families heart & eyes. Just watch over us all & know you are truly loved. I love you niece, Dayla & know I'm here for you all
11/18/2017 ~ linda
*R.I.H God's Soilder u Will be truly Miss u Mite Be Gone But u Will never Ever be for Gotten
11/18/2017 ~ Tasha Dubose
*I love you and will miss you. You can rest now with no worry, gone to soon nephew
11/18/2017 ~ Chiquita
*Love you Justin..RIP...until we meet again...love Kita... praying for the family..
11/18/2017 ~ Michelle Williams
*Justin, rest peacefully knowing you are truly loved and will be tremendously missed.
Family, I wish I had words to take the pain away. I love you all.
11/18/2017 ~ Nick Watson
*Love you cousin rest easy
11/18/2017 ~ Melanie Moore
*I Love you to the moon and back always Chaboney (son/brother) ! There is a piece of my heart that will never whole again . You are with Jordyn now and I know your being well taken care of. I Love you both so much !
11/18/2017 ~ Kiara Hill
*Cousin you will forever live in my heart I love you and miss you
11/18/2017 ~ Cory Adkins
*You will always be in our hearts.
11/18/2017 ~ Nicole Watson
*Rest peacefully sweet heart.
This memorial provided by:
Pollard Funeral Homes, Inc
Oklahoma City, OK
FUNERAL HOME
Pollard Funeral Home
2626 N Post Road, Oklahoma City, OK
405-769-6719
SERVICES
November 21, 2017 11:00 AM
Meadowood Baptist Chruch
2816 Woodcrest Drive, Midwest City OK
* * * * * * * * * *
ARDMORE POLICE ID CAR FIRE VICTIMS; NEIGHBORS AFRAID
Posted: Nov 20, 2017 10:24 AM
Updated: Dec 04, 2017 10:25 AM
Two bodies were found inside this charred car in an Ardmore driveway. (KTEN)
Karlie Clearman was found dead in a burning vehicle in an Ardmore driveway on November 11. (Courtesy)
ARDMORE, Okla. -- Nine days after two people were found dead in a burning car, Ardmore police have released the identities of the victims.
They are 23-year-old Karlie Clearman of Ardmore and Justin Sullivan, 28, of Midwest City.
The two were inside a car that was fully engulfed in flames when police and fire personnel arrived at an address in the 700 block of Anderson Street SE on November 11.
Police on Monday said the deaths of Clearman and Sullivan were ruled a homicide and that the case remains under investigation.
But with no suspect named, neighbors say they are scared in their own homes.
"I feel sad because I am afraid they are going to kill other people," one said.
Garrett is 11 years old and lives just two blocks away, He says he's now afraid to go outside.
"I was never scared until this happened," he said.
Another neighbor was unwilling to go on camera for fear of backlash.
"Somebody knows something," the neighbor said. "Ardmore might be a big town to some people. but there is somebody that knows everybody around here."
Funeral services for Karlie Clearman were set for 2 p.m. Friday at Griffin Hillcrest Funeral Home in Ardmore.
COMMENTS
by TaboolaSponsored LinksYou May Like
* * * * * * * *
ARDMORE BURNING CAR DEATH LINKED TO OKC HALFWAY HOUSE
Posted: Dec 04, 2017 4:16 PM
Updated: Dec 18, 2017 4:16 PM
Two bodies were found inside this charred car in an Ardmore driveway. (KTEN)
ARDMORE, Okla. -- There are new details about a double homicide investigation in Ardmore.
The charred remains of 23-year-old Karlie Clearman and Justin Sullivan, 28, were found in a burning car in the driveway of a home in the 700 block of Anderson Street SE on November 11.
Officials have been tight-lipped about the ongoing investigation, but the Oklahoma Department of Corrections released a statement on Monday that linked Sullivan to an Oklahoma City halfway house.
The DOC said it was terminating a contract with Catalyst Behavioral Services, which runs the halfway house, following an incident that preceded Sullivan's death.
In the statement, the DOC said:
Catalyst's count practices allowed Justin Sullivan ... to go missing November 11th. Ardmore police found Sullivan's charred remains in a burned vehicle 16 hours before Catalyst staff reported he was missing.
Ardmore police questioned the staff of the halfway house after Sullivan was identified.
"We had went up and interviewed several of the guards, and was advised by at least one of the guards that he basically had done bed checks and had been there throughout the night checking on him... which, you know, we found to be false," Ardmore police spokesman Capt. Keith Ingle said.
According to the DOC, Sullivan left Catalyst with Carton Franklin, another inmate. Franklin returned later that day without Sullivan.
But the next day, Franklin walked away again, and was arrested four days later in Tulsa for armed robbery.
DOC Director Joe Allbaugh said Monday that Catalyst Behavioral Services did not "conduct necessary functions effectively," including allowing inmates to come and go without accountability.
Ardmore police say the public has no reason for concern, even though they haven't yet named a suspect in the murder case.
"We are still following leads, and have several interviews left to conduct at this time," Ingle said.
The DOC said the other 106 inmates at Catalyst were being relocated to other halfway houses around the state.
The state paid Catalyst $32.50 per day for each of the 106 inmates that were housed at its Oklahoma City halfway house.
Telephone and email messages to Catalyst officials were not immediately returned.
* * * * * * * * *
FORMER OKLAHOMA HALFWAY HOUSE INMATE CHARGED IN ARDMORE DOUBLE HOMICIDE
By BRIANNA BAILEY| AUGUST 9, 2018
Accused murderer Carlton Franklin denied involvement in the killings in a jailhouse interview with the The Frontier earlier this year.
A former Oklahoma halfway house inmate has been charged in the deaths of a man and woman found shot to death inside a burning car in Ardmore.
In an exclusive jailhouse interview with The Frontier earlier this year, Carlton Franklin denied involvement in the slayings of Justin Ray Sullivan, 28, of Midwest City and Karlie Clearman, 23, of Ardmore.
On Thursday, The Carter County district attorney’s office charged Franklin, 32, with two counts of first-degree murder. Franklin is accused of shooting and killing Sullivan and Clearman with a .40-caliber firearm in November 2017.
At the time of the killings, Franklin and Sullivan were both AWOL from a Department of Corrections halfway house in Oklahoma City operated by the nonprofit Catalyst Behavioral Services. The state has since ended its contract with Catalyst for the facility after ongoing security problems there.
After Sullivan and Clearman’s deaths, Franklin returned to the Oklahoma City halfway house briefly before running away again and going on an alleged crime spree that included rape and armed robbery.
In March, Franklin was charged with first-degree rape in Oklahoma County. According to court records, Franklin allegedly raped a Del City woman at gunpoint four days after Sullivan and Clearman’s bodies were found in Ardmore.
The alleged rape was also first reported by The Frontier.
In an interview at the Tulsa county jail earlier this year, Franklin said he and Sullivan were able to leave the halfway house without being stopped by security on the night of Nov. 10, 2017 and walked to a couple of nearby clubs, where they ordered drinks.
Franklin spoke with The Frontier while being held on armed robbery and weapons charges in Tulsa County after he allegedly stole a man’s wallet at gunpoint.
Franklin said Sullivan had asked him to introduce him to some women. Franklin said he called Clearman to set her up with Sullivan.
The trio drove around the city for a while before Clearman dropped him off back at the halfway house and left, Franklin claims.
“We get in the car, and I’m really a third wheel,” Franklin said. “We drive for a little bit, and I’m like ‘just drop me off, I’ll call my girl. Whatever y’all are doing, go on and do that.’”
He said he called his girlfriend to pick him up after being dropped off.
Franklin told The Frontier he could not recall how long after 2 a.m. Clearman arrived at Catalyst to pick him and Sullivan up, approximately how long the three spent driving around Oklahoma City, or at what time Clearman dropped him off again at the halfway house. He said only that it was still dark outside when he was dropped off.
“We were both a little bit tipsy, so I’m not sure,” Franklin said. “I can’t recall.”
Later that morning, at 4:35 a.m., authorities discovered Clearman’s car on fire in the yard of an Ardmore home located about 103 miles away from the Catalyst halfway house — a drive of about 1 hour and 34 minutes, according to Google Maps.
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