Clayton County Man Convicted of Aggravated Child Molestation and Cruelty to Children

Clayton County District Attorney Tasha M. Mosley has announced the conviction of John Stafford on charges of Aggravated Child Molestation and Cruelty to Children in the First Degree.

The trial, which began on July 7, 2025, and concluded on July 9, 2025, was held in front of Superior Court Judge Aaron B. Mason. A Clayton County jury returned guilty verdicts on both charges.

According to evidence presented by the State, Stafford was caught sexually assaulting a minor on January 28, 2019, by the child’s mother. Further testimony revealed the abuse had been ongoing for approximately a year prior to being discovered.

Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney La’Carrian Blount led the prosecution, with Assistant District Attorney Sheila Francois serving as co-counsel. Major Case Investigator Luis Gomez and Victim Advocate Nerissa Sims also contributed significantly to the case.

John Stafford was sentenced to 25 years in prison, followed by life on probation. He will also be required to register as a sex offender for life.