Crime & Public Safety
Crime & Public Safety

Teen accused of killing Barney Simms pleads not guilty

Eric Banks is being held without bond. (Credit: Atlanta Police Department)
Eric Banks is being held without bond. (Credit: Atlanta Police Department)
By Ariella Phillips
Sept 20, 2016

The teenager accused of killing Atlanta Housing Authority executive Barney Simms pleaded not guilty Tuesday.

Eric Banks, 17, is accused of murdering the community and civil rights activist outside his home in April. Banks met Simms at a Waffle House before he was killed. Banks told police he shot Simms because he came on to him, Channel 2 Action News reported.

Banks is also charged with robbery. Prosecutors say that was the initial motive, as Banks stole Simms’ credit cards, car and television.

Banks’ mother urged her son to come forward, and he was arrested five days after the shooting.

The teen is being held without bond.

MORE COVERAGE:

Atlanta leaders ‘heartbroken’ over Simms’ death

Teenager claims self-defense

Fulton commissioners honor Simms

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Ariella Phillips
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