DeAndre Pickett, a member of Georgia’s advisory committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, has resigned after charges linked to a fatal hit-and-run became public.
Pickett, originally appointed in 2020, was charged in August 2024 with vehicular homicide and leaving the scene of a deadly accident, according to court documents. He posted a $50,000 bond two days later and appeared to return to his civil rights work.
The crash claimed the life of Joseph Banks III, as reported by Fox5. Now, Banks’ family is speaking out.
“He hit a human being and did not stop,” said Latoya Banks, Joseph’s sister. “Joseph was crossing the street when a vehicle struck him. He died on impact.”
Records show Pickett was reappointed to another four-year term as recently as March.
But in April, Latoya Banks contacted the commission.
“I thought, let me just Google him,” she told Fox5. “That’s when I saw everything—his credentials, and that he’d just been reappointed to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. I was shocked.”
The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights consists of eight commissioners—four appointed by the president and four by Congress. Each state has its own advisory committee, with members approved by the commissioners and serving four-year terms.
Following his reappointment, Pickett shared a message on LinkedIn:
“This appointment is incredibly meaningful to me. As someone who understands the challenges faced by communities that are often overlooked and underestimated, I am eager to contribute to shaping policies that reflect our true realities, uphold our rights, and honor the dignity of every Georgian.”
Banks strongly objected to his role.
“You’re fighting for civil rights, mentoring youth, and doing all these great things publicly. But he killed a human being,” she said.
A spokesperson confirmed to Fox5 that Pickett resigned after the agency inquired about the charges.
The Independent reached out to both the Commission and Pickett’s legal representation.
Pickett’s attorney declined further comment, citing the ongoing case, but shared this statement:
“We extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr. Joseph Banks. This is an unimaginable tragedy, and Dr. Pickett is overwhelmed with profound remorse and sorrow. Dr. Pickett has been a steadfast presence in the community throughout his life—committed to public service, civic engagement, and the well-being of those he has served. His record of service has been both meaningful and consistent, and this incident stands in stark contrast to the values he has long upheld.”
