A mother in Florida took matters into her own hands when she discovered that a man was sexting her 13-year-old daughter. The concerned mother, whose identity remains undisclosed, set up a sting operation to confront the suspect, identified as 18-year-old Cerry Rodriques Banks. The showdown took a dangerous turn when Banks allegedly showed a pistol tucked in his waistband during the confrontation.
The mother had discovered her daughter’s inappropriate text relationship with Banks and decided to pose as her daughter to set up a meeting at a local Popeye’s restaurant. When Banks arrived at the fast-food chain, he was met not by the teen but by the mother, her daughter, and her 11-year-old son. As the mother confronted Banks, he allegedly threatened her, saying, “When you hear the shots tonight, you know what’s up.”
Fearing for the safety of her children and herself, the mother retreated into the Popeye’s and called the police. The responding officer arrived at the scene and found Banks still outside the restaurant. Knowing that Banks was armed, the officer ordered him to show his hands. Banks then turned his back to the officer, ran around to the back of the restaurant, and pulled out his pistol.
The officer chased after Banks and, upon turning the corner, saw him brandishing the gun. The officer yelled for Banks to drop the weapon, but when he didn’t comply, the officer shot him multiple times. Despite being hit, Banks managed to run behind a neighboring business and drop his gun. The officer lost sight of Banks, but with the help of other law enforcement officers and a K-9 unit, Banks was eventually located in a drainage tunnel.
Banks sustained gunshot wounds to his hand, torso, and possibly his leg. He received medical treatment at the scene before being taken into custody and transported to a local hospital. Detectives recovered the gun Banks had on him and determined that he did not exchange gunfire with the officers during the pursuit.
Banks has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, lewd and lascivious conduct against a minor, unlawful use of a two-way communication device, and traveling to meet a minor after solicitation online. He is currently being held on a $700,000 bond.
While Sheriff T.K. Waters understands the mother’s concerns, he emphasized the importance of contacting law enforcement in such situations. He stated that while they would prefer to handle every situation, it is crucial for parents to call the authorities first to prevent incidents like this from escalating.
