Threats Aimed At Ayer Man With Same Name, Town & Age As Accused Rapist

AYER (CBS) - A young photographer from Ayer wants to clear his name, which he unfortunately shares with a man who's accused of one of the worst crimes imaginable.

"When I saw the news article, my heart stopped. I couldn't believe it. This was really happening," says Christopher Banks.

Not only do they share the same name, but they're both 21 and both live in the tiny town of Ayer.

The other Christopher Banks is awaiting trial for allegedly raping a baby.

"To me, that's the grossest thing anyone could possibly do... I'm going to be applying for a job. If they Google my name and see that..." he told WBZ-TV's Christina Hager.

Banks says he's already received threatening calls, texts, and emails.

"If you did this, that's pathetic. You shouldn't be doing stuff like that, he said. "If I ever see you, don't even think about what I might do to you."

To separate himself, he changed his resume to include his middle name.

"Last time somebody used my middle name was my mom when I was younger," he said. "I even had a client I was working on a project for...called and asked if it was me, and if it was, then he didn't want to do business anymore."

He now goes by Christopher Jordan Banks, not to be confused with defendant Christopher D. Banks. He now carries a picture of the other Banks on his phone at all times; visual proof for doubters.