Fairfield Woman Sentenced to 24 Years in Bessemer Beating Death of 76-Year-Old Neighbor

Monyuett Catrice Hinson pleaded guilty to felony murder in the 2021 death of Alverner Blanks.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A Fairfield woman, Monyuett Catrice Hinson, has pleaded guilty to felony murder in the 2021 beating death of her 76-year-old neighbor, Alverner Blanks, in Bessemer, Alabama. Hinson was originally charged with capital murder but reached a plea deal with prosecutors, resulting in a 24-year prison sentence.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of violence and crime in the Bessemer community, as well as the challenges of prosecuting homicide cases, particularly when the victim and perpetrator knew each other. The plea deal also reflects the complexities of the criminal justice system and the need to balance justice for the victim's family with pragmatic considerations.

The details

According to prosecutors, the fatal attack occurred on September 8, 2021, at Blanks' home in Bessemer. Hinson and Blanks were neighbors and acquaintances, and an argument over money allegedly escalated, leading Hinson to strike Blanks in the head with a space heater. Blanks was hospitalized and later transferred to an assisted living facility, where he died three days later. The Jefferson County Coroner's Office ruled his death a homicide.

  • The fatal attack occurred on September 8, 2021.
  • Blanks died three days later, on September 11, 2021.
  • Hinson pleaded guilty and was sentenced on March 4, 2026.

The players

Monyuett Catrice Hinson

A 29-year-old Fairfield woman who pleaded guilty to felony murder in the death of her neighbor, Alverner Blanks.

Alverner Blanks

A 76-year-old Bessemer man who was beaten to death by his neighbor, Monyuett Catrice Hinson, during a dispute over money.

Brent Butler

The assistant district attorney who prosecuted the case against Hinson.

Yusuf Olufemi

One of the attorneys who represented Hinson.

Leslie Moore

One of the attorneys who represented Hinson.

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What they’re saying

“The plea agreement was reached with the consent of the victim's family.”

— Brent Butler, Assistant District Attorney (speakinoutweeklynews.net)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Monyuett Catrice Hinson out on bail pending her sentencing.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for continued efforts to address violence and crime in the Bessemer community, as well as the importance of the criminal justice system balancing justice for victims with pragmatic considerations when reaching plea deals.