A Multi-Jurisdictional Investigative Team conducting a probe into an officer-involved shooting by a Champaign Police Officer has released more information. The officer involved says his weapon accidentally discharged when he slipped while coming to a running stop. The shot struck 22-year-old Dehari Banks in the shoulder after Banks had run through several yards and alleys while being pursued by police.
Banks was taken to a Champaign-Urbana hospital for treatment of a non-life threatening wound. The team investigating the incident also released the name of the officer involved, but we are withholding that name since no charges have been lodged against the officer.
The pursuit began when the officer initiated a traffic stop in the 400 block of East Washington Street in Champaign…and the suspect fled on foot. The chase began and the shooting occurred shortly after 10:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Champaign Police Chief Anthony Cobb says, ‘’As a Department, we fully recognize the number of questions and concerns that our community will have from any officer-involved shooting. We will continue to cooperate with the Multi-Jurisdictional Investigative Team, and provide updates as information becomes available. We ask for our communities continued patience as the investigators work to complete their investigation.’’
As per Department policy regarding officer-involved shootings, the officer is currently on paid investigative leave, and he has been fully cooperative with the investigation. And once the investigation findings are complete, they will be submitted to the Champaign County State’s Attorney for review.
