Montgomery, AL – Two additional men have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a violent robbery of a Montgomery dry cleaning business, marking another major development in a case that left a local business owner injured and traumatized.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Alabama, a federal judge on Tuesday, January 13, sentenced Spirit Hooks, 51, of Birmingham, to 175 months in prison. On the same day, Spencer Thomas, 68, of Montgomery, was sentenced to 144 months. There is no parole in the federal prison system.
Prosecutors said the robbery occurred on March 10, 2025, at a dry cleaning business on East South Street in Montgomery, located in Montgomery County, within the River Region of Central Alabama. Court records show Hooks and Thomas acted alongside Zedekiah Sykes, 58, who was previously sentenced to 195 months in federal prison on October 23, 2025.
Investigators said the men allegedly shattered the front door with a rock and confronted the business owner inside. During the robbery, Thomas pointed what appeared to be a handgun at the victim’s head—later determined to be a BB gun—while demanding access to a locked safe. When the victim struggled to recall the combination, Hooks struck him in the eye, causing visible injuries.
The group ultimately stole about $8,000 in cash, zip-tied the victim’s hands and feet, and fled using the victim’s vehicle after stealing his keys and cellphone. All three convicted men pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and were ordered to pay $17,624.49 in restitution.
Charges against Clinton Thompson, 55, remain pending. He is presumed innocent, and his trial is scheduled for May 11, 2026.
Authorities said the case reflects a coordinated effort between the FBI, Montgomery Police Department, ALEA, and the Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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