Tattoo Artist Charged with Sexual Assaults

Charles Wayne Wilkerson IV, a 28-year-old tattoo artist and rapper known as "Franko Khalifa," has been arrested and charged with multiple sexual assaults against young women who sought his tattoo artistry. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported that two assaults occurred on December 18, 2023, and February 16, 2024, involving 25-year-old victims at his tattoo shop and a residence, respectively. He faces four felony charges, including rape of a drugged victim and forcible oral copulation, and is currently in custody awaiting a preliminary hearing. Detectives believe there may be additional victims and have released his photo to encourage them to come forward. LAPD Detective Robert Smey emphasized that Wilkerson gained the trust of his victims before the assaults, urging others affected to seek justice. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the LAPD's Southwest Division Sexual Assault Unit.