Former Host Of Children’s TV Program Arrested On Sex Charges

In the late 1970's many children in North Louisiana were fans of "Mr. Wonder" a television show that was broadcast on KNOE-TV. "Mr. Wonder", who's real name is Frank John Selas III has been arrested in San Diego on two counts of obscene behavior with a juvenile.

According to a spokesperson for the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Department Selas' alleged crimes date back to the 1970's. Lt. Tommy Carnline with RPSO told the Louisiana Radio Network that Selas would often invite children aged five to eleven years old on weekend camping trips. That was where the alleged crimes would take place.

We’ve found leads and we’ve tried to locate, we were never actually able to track him down. We got the United States’ Marshal Service and they actually followed some leads and were able to develop a location.

According to reports authorities received a complaint from parents in 1979 that Selas had abused their children during a camping trip to Valentine Lake in Kisatchie National Forest. Selas fled the country before authorities could arrest him.

According to Carnline, Selas traveled to Japan and South and Central America throughout his lifetime and there is a potential for even more charges to be filed.

With victims being under 12 years of age it could be first degree rape. These are some pretty serious charges, we just don’t know how far the extent goes.

While on the run from authorities it is believed that Selas lived in Brazil before returning to the United States and living under an assumed name. Lt. Carnline says that many of Selas' victims would now be in their 40's and 50's.

37 years ago telling on adult was not prevalent, that’s why some many of these cases went unreported. But some of these strong, courageous children did have the mindset to tell someone.

He hopes that the arrest of Selas in San Diego will give others a reason to come forward and tell their story as well. Carnline says those that were wronged in the 70's deserve the chance to have closure. If you have information regarding Selas or these allegations you are encouraged to contact the Rapides Parish Sheriffs Office.