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Written by: A. Smith
Published May 9, 2025 @ 8:30 AM ET
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. – A Georgia representative on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights has stepped down after charges related to a deadly hit-and-run surfaced.
DeAndre Pickett, who served on Georgia’s advisory committee to the federal commission, was charged in August 2024 with felony vehicular homicide and hit-and-run in connection with the death of 53-year-old Joseph Banks III, according to court records.
Despite the charges, Pickett continued to serve on the committee and was reappointed to a new term in March 2025. His resignation came this week after Banks’ family discovered his role on the commission and raised concerns.
The crash occurred around 10 p.m. in late August 2024 on Old National Highway in College Park. Investigators with the Georgia State Patrol found a pair of shoes left at the scene and began piecing together what happened. According to reports, the victim was crossing the street and was hit by Pickett’s vehicle. The victim died instantly, and Pickett did not stop. Within days, troopers identified Pickett as a suspect and charged him with leaving the scene and vehicular homicide.
He was released after posting a $50,000 bond and has remained free as the case proceeds.
Pickett’s continued service went unnoticed until April, when the victim’s family began researching the case and discovered his public appointment.
They contacted the commission to alert them. A spokesperson for the commission confirmed Pickett submitted his resignation shortly afterward.
Pickett’s attorney, Durante Partridge, said his client could not comment on the case due to the ongoing investigation. However, in a statement, Partridge expressed condolences and emphasized Pickett’s community service.
“We extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr. Joseph Banks,” the statement read. “This is an unimaginable tragedy, and Dr. Pickett is overwhelmed with profound remorse and sorrow. His life has been rooted in public service and civic engagement. This incident does not reflect the values he has long upheld.”
The Fulton County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that the investigation remains active.