An 18-year-old was shot by police in Florida after a sting operation conducted by the mother of a 13-year-old to whom he reportedly sent “inappropriate” text messages.
Cerry Banks planned to meet the child at a Popeyes fast food restaurant in Jacksonville on November 11, but was approached by the mother, who had learned of the relationship the night before, according to investigators.
According to Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Chief of Investigations Alan Parker, Banks was “not that smart” and had no idea he was talking to the mother when organizing the meeting.
When Banks arrived, he flashed a revolver hidden in his underwear and told the woman, “When you hear the shots tonight, you know what’s up,” according to Parker. The family retreated to the Popeyes, where law enforcement was contacted.
Officers arrived around 30 minutes after receiving a complaint of an aggravated assault.
“When officers arrived on scene, the suspect was still standing by the business…” “He had plenty of time to leave,” Parker explained.
Banks was apparently given many verbal requests to turn around and reveal his hands, but instead bolted around the corner of the eatery. As one officer followed him, he seen Banks withdraw the weapon from his waistband.
After several warnings and instructions to drop the weapon, the officer opened fire, hitting Banks several times, including in the hand and leg. Banks continued to flee, dropping the gun, Parker stated.
Banks was caught without incident following a brief pursuit that included the help of a K-9 unit. He was sent to a nearby hospital for treatment and is thought to be in stable condition.
“We like for parents to let us handle these situations,” Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters told reporters.
“It is protective in nature, and mothers and fathers will do whatever they feel is necessary to protect their children.” And we can’t really blame them for that, but we do ask that they give us the opportunity to resolve the matter. But I cannot blame [the mother].”
Parker continued, “You never know what someone may do when their back is against the wall. “It’s probably best to leave it to the professionals.”