CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A GoFundMe account set up to support Officer Wes Kerrick has been removed from the website. The Charlotte Fraternal Order of Police is now asking for contributions to help support Kerrick and his family.
Anyone wanting to contribute can mail a check to the FOP Lodge #9, 1201 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28205. Checks should be made payable to FOP Lodge #9. In the memo line of the check, write “Wes Kerrick.” All contributions will be tax deductible.
Officer Kerrick is currently on trial for shooting and killing Jonathan Ferrell, an unarmed black man. Ferrell, 24, wrecked his car in east Charlotte and after wrecking, Ferrell went to a nearby home. The woman inside called 911, saying Ferrell was trying to force his way into her home.
Investigators say Officer Kerrick was one of three police officers who responded. Officers say once on scene, Ferrell charged at them and refused to listen to their orders to stop. One officer fired a TASER at Ferrell, but according to the defense, the TASER had no effect on Ferrell. The defense says Ferrell continued to advance on Kerrick.
Kerrick shot Ferrell when he allegedly saw Ferrell reach for his waistband. The two then allegedly fell to the ground and began fighting. The defense says Ferrell hit Kerrick in the face and grabbed Kerrick’s gun.
Investigators say Kerrick fired a total of 12 shots, 10 of which hit Ferrell. Ferrell was not armed. Kerrick is charged with voluntary manslaughter in the shooting.
