Joliet Woman Fatally Shot in Home Had Order of Protective Custody Against Suspect

JOLIET, IL — Court documents reveal that the 40-year-old Joliet woman who was fatally shot in her home last week had an order of protective custody out against the man now facing first-degree murder and other criminal charges in connection with the home invasion. Alicia Cole was killed inside her home on Westshire Drive, and Willie Banks, 47, South Chicago Heights, has been arrested and charged in the incident.

Protective Custody Order and Previous Violence

According to court documents, Cole had obtained an order of protective custody against Banks due to a history of violence. In May, Cole identified Banks as her spouse and requested an order of protection following a violent incident on March 25. In that incident, Cole alleged that Banks had forced her to eat cat food, threw her smartwatch into the toilet, and physically assaulted her, leaving bruising on her body.

Previous court documents also show that in 2022, Cole had filed a petition for an order of protection, stating that Banks had assaulted her and struck her in the head with a cell phone. Banks had also confiscated her cell phone and prevented her from seeking medical attention for her injuries.

Tragic Home Invasion

Last week, Cole dialed 911 from her home on Westshire Drive, reporting a break-in. Dispatchers could hear gunshots and Cole’s pleas for help before the line went silent. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Banks inside the living room, admitting to shooting Cole. She was found in the bathroom with multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigations revealed shattered windows and blood droplets leading from the living room to the bathroom. A handgun was discovered underneath the bed in Cole’s bedroom. Banks sustained injuries while breaking a window, and he claimed that his 7-year-old daughter had been stabbed to death by her mother, Hazel Ivy, who had discovered Banks’ affair with Cole.

Charges and Legal History

Banks has been charged with three counts of murder, home invasion, unlawful use of a weapon by a felon, and violation of bail/bond. He has a pending case in Will County, involving multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including unlawful use of a weapon and domestic battery, related to the incident in March.

Reports indicate that Banks had previously served time in prison and had been arrested multiple times in Will County this year. His arrest in connection with Cole’s murder marks the fourth arrest.

Conclusion

The tragic death of Alicia Cole highlights the urgent need for stronger protective measures against domestic violence. The existence of an order of protective custody and a history of violence raises questions about the effectiveness of such measures in preventing tragic outcomes. As the legal proceedings unfold, it is essential to address the systemic issues surrounding domestic violence and ensure the safety of individuals who have experienced or are at risk of such violence.