DA weighs in on Ally Hawkins' claims

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - On Thursday, Nov. 30, Ally Hawkins claimed her brother attacked Owens' because of couple’s involvement in drugs and prostitution, and those comments caught the attention of Mobile County District Attorney Ashley Rich.

“Well, we are concerned with the allegation that they were engaging in criminal activity. And if the investigation reveals that they are still engaging in criminal activity, then charges can be brought, but we have no evidence of that at this point,” said Ashley Rich.  

Rich said Ally Hawkins' comments confirmed the attack was not a hate crime.

“The motive for the beating was not as a result of the relationship that was going on between the victim and the defendant’s sister. So that [interview] confirmed to us, and should confirm to everyone, that this is not a hate crime,” said Rich.

Rich said she is still moving forward with Hawkins Jr.'s initial charge.

“We are moving forward with the assault second degree charges we are anxiously awaiting the arraignment and the preliminary hearing and taking it to a grand jury,” said Rich.

On Friday, Nov. 30, Mallory Owens released a statement through her attorney.