Syracuse, N.Y. - A Syracuse police officer is about to sue the department claiming has been discriminated against because of his race, denying him a promotion.
Brandon Hanks, claims that several officers are making up lies about him, in an effort to keep him off the Gang Violence Task Force. He is accusing the department of engaging in a "Jim Crow" culture.
Hanks gained attention for playing one on one basketball with kids offering them a pair of sneakers if they beat him.
Hanks is asking for $33 million in damages as well as changes in the department.
Photo: WSYR, NEWS