Sankey brothers plead guilty in 2014 Montgomery assault, homicide case

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MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - Brothers Christopher and Michael Sankey were sentenced to 15 years in prison Thursday after pleading guilty to manslaughter and assault charges stemming from a 2014 robbery.

The Sankey brothers were developed as suspects in April 2014 following an investigation by Montgomery police in which one man was assaulted and other man died. They were ultimately arrested by the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force.

Police were not initially sure if the cases were connected since they found one victim, Jarvez Hand, at a scene on South Holt Street. A second victim, Derrick Varner, made it to a hospital on his own before dying.

The motive was an argument between the brothers and the victims; the Sankeys stole the victims' car. Christopher and Michael were initially charged with capital murder and second degree assault but the charges were later reduced.

Michael, in particular, has a lengthy criminal recording including assault, burglary, robbery and marijuana possession. His brother did not have a record until his arrest.

In addition to the prison time, the brothers will be required to pay nearly $6,000 in restitution. Their sentences will run concurrently and they will receive credit for time already served. The judge has also ordered Christopher Sankey to complete his GED.