Ferris officer honored

MAYOR’S COMMENDATION PRESENTED TO OFFICER CHARLES BANKS III

WHEREAS, at 11:45 PM on May 23, 2022, Officer Charles Banks III arrived at a scene of a wrong-way driver on Interstate 45 south of Mars Road; and

WHEREAS, Officer Charles Banks III risked his own life in the moments after the crash had claimed the lives of four people by crossing over the median of Interstate 45 with only a flashlight to warn oncoming traffic; and

WHEREAS, Officer Charles Banks III made every effort to preserve life and property while putting himself in harm’s way; and

WHEREAS, Without the rapid response of Officer Charles Banks III, others would have sustained serious, life-threatening injuries, or even worse death; and

WHEREAS, Officer Charles Banks III performed an act characterized as bravery and placed himself at risk of serious physical injury or death; and

WHEREAS, Officer Charles Banks III was a model peace officer and represented the City of Ferris, the Ferris Police Department, and the Citizens of Ferris with distinction and honor.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Fred C. Pontley, Mayor of the City of Ferris, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby present this Mayor’s Commendation to Officer Charles Banks III for bravery and valor and offer our thanks and gratitude for the actions taken by Officer Charles Banks III. Further, I Fred C. Pontley, do hereby make known that Officer Charles Banks III shall be nominated by the City of Ferris for the Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery to honor his exceptional acts of bravery in the line of duty.