Parris Johnson of Dallas has been found guilty of Aggravated Assault causing Serious Bodily Injury in the case involving an altercation with a homeless man named Chris. The incident occurred on May 10, 2021, outside Happy’s convenience store in North Dallas.
Johnson, a uniformed security officer, approached Chris, who was warming up oatmeal inside the store. Despite Chris not being criminally trespassed, Johnson ordered him to leave the premises. Ignoring Chris's explanation, Johnson escalated the situation by pushing him and deploying pepper spray, which accidentally blew back into his own eye. In response, Chris ran toward Johnson, who then shot him in the leg, shattering bones.
During the trial, Johnson claimed self-defense, but evidence including surveillance footage and Johnson's body-camera contradicted his account. The jury found him guilty, considering his quick temper and previous incidents of mistreating homeless individuals. Johnson was sentenced to 19 years in prison.
The verdict was delivered on April 4, 2024, marking the conclusion of a case that highlighted the importance of accountability and fair treatment for all members of society.
