⏱ 2 min read
James Andre Banks, a 39-year-old convicted murderer, was caught red-handed trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine in South Minneapolis. Banks, who was on state parole for his previous murder and assault convictions, was found with distribution quantities of crystal meth and cocaine, as well as two firearms, a Taurus G2C semi-automatic pistol and a Glock Model 17. The arrest was the result of a joint law enforcement operation involving local, state, and federal agencies, including the Minneapolis and Metro Transit Police Departments.
The operation, known as a Focused Enforcement Detail, targeted a known problem area in Minneapolis, where Banks was suspected of conducting narcotics transactions near Park Ave and East Lake Street. When approached by officers, Banks fled on foot and tossed a firearm, which was recovered by officers. A search of his person and vehicle turned up the second firearm, as well as the meth and cocaine.
Banks’ prior convictions for Second-Degree Intentional Murder and Second-Degree Assault with a Deadly Weapon prohibited him from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Despite this, he was found with two loaded guns, one with an extended magazine containing 18 rounds of ammunition and another round loaded in the chamber.
The United States Attorney’s Office has prioritized working with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to prosecute violent felons who illegally possess firearms and traffic dangerous drugs. Banks’ sentence of 10 years in federal prison reflects the seriousness of his crimes and the commitment of law enforcement to keeping communities safe.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Drug Trafficking
- Defendant: Minnesota
- Location: MN
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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