Yesterday, Champaign Police provided a preliminary overview involving an officer-involved shooting that took place in Champaign. This release supplies additional information into the circumstances of that shooting.
On Sunday, June 11, 2017, at approximately 10:37 PM, Champaign Police Officer James Hobson initiated a traffic stop in the 400 Block of E. Washington St. The involved driver of the vehicle fled from the officer for several blocks before pulling into a driveway in the 400 Block of E. Church St., striking a residential garage.
The driver, 22-year-old Dehari Banks, exited the car and fled on foot. Officer Hobson pursued Banks on foot, running between houses and continuing through several backyards and alleyways while identifying himself and giving verbal commands for Banks to stop. The foot chase ended when Banks reached a fenced-in area in the 300 Block of N. Fourth St.; at which time Banks turned towards Officer Hobson, who drew his duty weapon as he was coming to a running stop. Officer Hobson reports that as he stopped, his foot slipped on the ground, causing an accidental discharge of his weapon. Preliminary information reflects that Banks was not in possession of a weapon at the time of the incident.
Banks, who was struck in the shoulder by the single gunshot, was provided medical care by officers who arrived on the scene within seconds of the shooting. He was then transported by ambulance to an area-hospital for a non-life threatening injury.
Champaign Police Chief Anthony Cobb states, “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 community’s continued patience as the investigators work to complete the investigation.”
As per Department policy regarding officer-involved shootings, Officer Hobson is currently on paid investigative leave, and he has been fully cooperative with the investigation. The Champaign County Multi-Jurisdictional Investigative Team, led by Illinois State Police, continues to process evidence from the scene, review video/audio footage, conduct interviews, and review all other relevant details. Those investigative findings will then be submitted to the Champaign County State’s Attorney’s Office for further review.
Related News Release:
Multi-Jurisdictional Investigative Team Conducts Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation
Media Contact:
LaEisha Meaderds | 217.403.6987 | [email protected]