In a horrifying case of mistaken identity, a mother in Sacramento, California, is calling on police to pay for her 8-year-old son's therapy after he was held at gunpoint during a routine traffic stop. Shanice Stewart, who is nine months pregnant and works as a hairstylist, wants justice for her son, Brandon, who has been left traumatized by the incident.

The incident occurred on October 17th when Stewart and her son were pulled over by police at around 5 p.m. Unbeknownst to them, law enforcement officers had mistaken Brandon for a teenager wanted on two felony charges. To their shock and horror, four police cars and a helicopter swarmed the vehicle, with the officers pointing their guns at the innocent mother and child.

Recalling the incident, Stewart expressed her concerns about the lasting impact it could have on her son's mental well-being. Brandon was terrified and pleaded with the officers not to take his mother. He was left in tears, and now exhibits anxiety around police and fears riding on highways.

"When I was pulled over, I was scared for my life, but to find out they were there for my 8-year-old son was even more distressing," Stewart shared. "I can't understand how such a mistake can be made, and I worry about the effect it will have on him in the long run."

In response to the incident, the Sacramento Police Department issued a statement acknowledging the case of mistaken identity and offering an apology to Stewart and her son. The department revealed that the officers had been tracking the pair since they left their home, believing they were pursuing a juvenile with two outstanding felony warrants, including one for gun possession. They assured the public that they are reviewing the situation.

"We recognize the impact that police interactions can have on our community members," the police statement read. "Our officers offered an explanation and apology to the mother and her son. We remain in contact with the mother and are committed to resolving this situation."

Stewart, however, remains unsatisfied with a mere apology. She contacted the Internal Affairs Division of the city and has demanded a "genuine apology" from the police department. Furthermore, she is seeking compensation for her son's therapy, emphasizing the need for professional help to heal from the traumatic experience.

"He's never been through anything like this before – being pulled over and having a gun pointed at him," Stewart said. "Both of us are suffering, and therapy is crucial for his recovery. This incident will have long-lasting effects, and the police department needs to take responsibility for that."

Stewart's desire for justice stems from the belief that such actions by the police should not go unpunished. She firmly believes that covering the costs of therapy will provide her son with the necessary support to process and move on from this traumatic event.

As the Sacramento Police Department continues its internal review, the community waits to see if justice will be served for Brandon and his mother. The demand for accountability is a reminder that police interactions have lasting consequences and should be handled with great care to ensure the well-being and safety of every citizen, especially children.