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Manhunt leaves DPD seeking suspect

Jeremy D. Smith
Images of a man authorities now know to be Akeem Benison were taken by a security camera during a Nov. 9 robbery of Diamond Gas Station, the same establishment Benison robbed previously Sept. 17 and again Wednesday, Dec. 12.

The Demopolis Police Department is seeking any information that could lead to the apprehension of Akeem Benison.

DPD is seeking Benison for three counts of Armed Robbery in the Demopolis area, the latest of which occurred Wednesday night, Dec. 12 at the BP Service Station adjacent to Church’s Chicken on U.S. Highway 80 East. Authorities believe Benison robbed the establishment, also known as the Diamond Gas Station, Sept. 17 and Nov. 9.

Thursday, officers from the DPD went to the Forkland area of Greene County where Benison was last spotted. Officers closed off the area before calling for air support from the helicopter of the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s office.

Most recent mugshot of Akeem Benison, who is 6-1, 165 pounds. Benison is 20 years old and was last seen in the Forkland area.

After six hours of searching the heavily wooded area, the department was unable to locate the suspect.

DPD also enlisted the assistance of Alabama State Troopers, the 17th Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, the Alabama Beverage Control Board and the Eutaw Police Department in the search.

All those with information pertaining to Benison’s whereabouts are encouraged to contact law enforcement immediately. Benison should be considered dangerous. Those with information can contact the Demopolis Police Department at 334-289-3073.

“We are asking the public to help get this person off the streets before he hurts someone or gets hurt himself,” Demopolis Police Department Chief Tommie Reese said.