Alverner Blanks

An argument between neighbors over money in Bessemer, Alabama, ended in a violent assault that claimed the life of Alverner Blanks, a 76-year-old Black man. On September 8, 2021, Blanks and his neighbor and acquaintance, Monyuett Catrice Hinson, were at his home on Holbrook Terrace when their dispute turned physical. Authorities reported that Hinson picked up a space heater and struck Blanks in the head with it.

After the attack, Hinson left the home. Another neighbor later found Blanks unresponsive and called for help. He was transported to a hospital, where he received care until September 21. He was then moved to an assisted-living facility, but he succumbed to his injuries three days later on September 24, 2021. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office officially ruled his death a homicide.

Police initially arrested Hinson on September 9, 2021, the day after the assault, on charges including attempted murder and robbery. She was released from jail on a $25,000 bond on September 24, the same day that Mr. Blanks passed away. After the coroner's ruling, investigators obtained a new warrant for Hinson, and she was taken back into custody in November 2021.

The original charges were dropped and replaced with a more severe charge of capital murder. Authorities explained that the charge was elevated because they believed money and clothing had been taken from Blanks during the incident. Hinson was held without bond to await trial.

The case came to a close in February 2026, just days before Hinson’s trial was scheduled to begin. She accepted a plea agreement, which was made with the consent of the victim’s family. Hinson pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of felony murder. On February 27, 2026, she was formally sentenced to 24 years in prison and will receive credit for time served.