A convicted felon has been sentenced to 30 months in prison for illegal possession of a firearm, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and FBI Special Agent in Charge Carlton Peeples.
U.S. District Court Judge Ann Marie Axon handed down the sentence to David Lee Hooker, aged 53, following his guilty plea in November 2024. The charge stemmed from a road rage incident that occurred in Jefferson County.
"This sentence sends a clear message that violent and reckless behavior on our roads will not be tolerated," stated U.S. Attorney Escalona. "We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who threaten the safety of our communities and endanger innocent lives."
Special Agent in Charge Carlton Peeples emphasized the importance of community safety, saying, "The safety of our communities is a priority. The strong collaboration between FBI Birmingham and our state and local law enforcement partners works as a force multiplier to remove violent offenders from the communities we protect and serve."
The plea agreement details that on April 4, 2023, Hooker was involved in an altercation at the intersection of Bessemer Road and BY Williams Sr. Drive. During this incident, Hooker's vehicle remained stationary through two cycles of traffic lights while another driver honked repeatedly behind him. After making a left turn, Hooker pulled over and pointed a firearm at the other driver as they passed by.
The situation escalated when both vehicles entered a nearby parking lot where Hooker exited his car and approached the second vehicle. A Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Task Force Officer witnessed these events unfold and intervened by activating emergency lights. Hooker then placed his firearm into his pocket and surrendered by raising his hands.
A Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol was recovered from Hooker during this intervention.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI alongside the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin A. Keown Sr., prosecuting the case.
