Two godparents, Azaya Frenchie and Ranasja Mason, face Class D felony charges of Abuse or Neglect of a Child following a St. Ann child abuse investigation into the severe physical assault of a 5-year-old girl. The child returned home to her mother in Illinois after a month-long summer visit displaying extensive injuries, including a broken tooth and widespread bruising. Both suspects are currently being held on $100,000 cash-only bonds in St. Louis County.
St. Louis’ Crime Chime – Weekly Whirlwind of Woes: Betrayed by Godparents: Azaya Frenchie and Ranasja Mason Slapped with $100K Cash-Only Bonds for Brutal Child Abuse
A summer visit turned into a nightmare in the town,
A five-year-old came back home with her spirit wearing down.
Returned to Illinois, her mother noticed every trace—
Bruises on her body, and the trauma on her face.
Taken to the hospital, the doctors saw the scars,
Injuries in different stages, healing behind bars.
A forensic interview brought the painful truth to light:
Struck with hands, a belt, and objects through the day and night.
One alleged incident left a broken tooth behind,
A month-long stay with godparents, supposed to be kind.
St. Ann detectives moved in fast to analyze the clues,
Uncovering the text messages that verified the news.
A confession on the record, now the truth begins to speak,
The law stepped in to represent the vulnerable and weak.
July twenty-third, the prosecutor brought the weight,
Class D felony charges for the suspects facing fate.
Azaya Frenchie and Ranasja Mason in the cell,
A hundred thousand dollar cash-only bond to pay as well.
No ten percent option, held accountable in court,
Innocent till proven guilty as the city gets report.
From heartbreaking losses to shocking crimes, these stories paint a sobering picture of the challenges facing our communities. Let’s hope for justice, healing, and a safer tomorrow.
St. Louis Crime Chime: Partnering for a Safer Community
The St. Louis Crime Chime is evolving into a mission-driven organization dedicated to partnering with local public safety agencies and community-focused media, such as The Evening Whirl and Real STL News, to shine a light on social and violence-related issues. Our goal is to provide resources that support both victims and perpetrators of traumatic events, fostering healing and prevention within our community.
Through its St. Louis Crime Chime section. This essential platform empowers residents by highlighting emerging threats and safety concerns, encouraging vigilance and informed decision-making. Beyond reporting, it holds individuals and institutions accountable by keeping arrests and legal proceedings in the public eye, promoting transparency and urging neighbors to protect and support one another.
While the headlines often confront difficult truths, they also serve as a rallying cry for action. By staying informed through reliable sources and official police data, residents can move beyond fear and take an active role in prevention and community-building efforts. Together, we can transform awareness into meaningful change, helping St. Louis write a safer, more hopeful chapter for all.
What You Can Do
- Get Mental Health resources help for you and your family
- For daily updates, check the SLMPD Crime and Investigations page.
- For anonymous tips to the St. Louis police, use the St. Louis Regional CrimeStoppers Hotline at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477)
- The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for free and confidential support. We provide free & confidential support to people in crisis for any reason, 24 hours a day.
- StopBullying.gov: Offers resources and help lines, including options for youth and veterans (Dial 988 then press 1).
- Protect our children: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/keeping-kids-safe/can.htm
Stay tuned, stay safe, and remember: “If it’s crime you seek, we’ve got the streak.
